The world of theatre and academia mourns the passing of Professor Jane Plastow, a visionary scholar whose revolutionary work in African theatre created bridges between continents and transformed how we understand performance culture. Professor Plastow died peacefully on 16th September 2025, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that continues to inspire generations of artists and academics.
A Life Dedicated to African Theatre
Professor Plastow's journey into African theatre began not in lecture halls, but through hands-on experience. Before her academic career flourished, she taught in Sudan and Ethiopia, immersing herself in the rich tapestry of African performance traditions. This ground-level understanding would become the foundation of her revolutionary approach to theatre studies.
Academic Leadership and Innovation
As Professor of African Theatre at the University of Leeds, Plastow didn't just teach – she transformed. She served as the dynamic head of the School of English and later as the director of the influential Workshop Theatre, turning it into a hub of creative exchange and intercultural dialogue.
Her leadership extended beyond university walls as the co-editor of the African Theatre series, where she championed diverse voices and brought previously overlooked performances to global attention.
Groundbreaking Research and Lasting Impact
Professor Plastow's research portfolio reads like a roadmap of theatrical innovation:
- African Theatre and Performance: Her deep dives into the continent's diverse theatrical traditions revealed complex cultural narratives
- Applied Drama: She pioneered using theatre as a tool for social change and community development
- Women in Theatre: Her work consistently amplified female voices in African performance arts
- Intercultural Exchange: She built lasting bridges between African and British theatre communities
A Legacy That Lives On
Beyond her published works and academic positions, Professor Plastow's true legacy lives in the countless students, artists, and scholars she inspired. Her ability to see the universal human experience through the specific lens of African theatre created new pathways for understanding our shared humanity.
Her former students now lead theatre companies, teach in universities, and create transformative work across the globe – each carrying forward a spark of her passion for theatre as a force for connection and change.
Professor Jane Plastow's passing leaves a void in the world of theatre scholarship, but her pioneering spirit continues to illuminate the path for those who believe in the power of performance to transform lives and bridge cultures.
