Come November, Lagos will once again transform into a living stage as the Lagos International Theatre Festival (LITF) returns for its 2025 edition. From November 10 to 16, theatre, star power, and unforgettable moments will collide at Muson Centre. Founded by Bolanle Austen-Peters of Terra Kulture in partnership with the Lagos State Government, and powered this year by FirstBank as lead sponsor, the festival has grown into one of West Africa’s most important cultural showcases. This is not your average theatre fest; it’s a full-blown cultural takeover.
How It All Began
Started as a bold idea, LITF has carved out a bold space for theatre in Nigeria, giving homegrown and international artists a shared stage. Bolanle Austen-Peters claimed that the festival’s mission has always been to bridge cultures, inspire collaboration, and make Lagos a meeting point for global theatre conversations. Over the years, audiences have witnessed everything from musicals to stage plays, with previous editions spotlighting women creators, international collaborations, and opportunities for young talents (Guardian Nigeria).
What to Expect in 2025
This year, the Lagos International Theatre Festival will be staged exclusively at the Muson Centre, Lagos. While the official programme has not yet been released, LITF is traditionally a showcase of stage plays, musicals, and international collaborations, bringing together audiences and performers in one of West Africa’s most vibrant cultural spaces. Theatre lovers can expect a week of performances that highlight both homegrown talent and global creativity, with Lagos once again taking centre stage in November.
For those dreaming of their work on the LITF stage, submissions are still open. The festival is actively inviting playwrights and theatre companies to send in their works for consideration.
Why It Matters
LITF isn’t just a week of celebration, it’s an engine for the creative economy. Each edition creates short-term jobs for stagehands, sound engineers, lighting crews, and managers, while opening long-term opportunities for productions that go on tour. It creates jobs, builds skills, and opens doors. Whether you’re backstage or center stage, this festival is about growth, visibility, and real opportunities. With backing from FirstBank and the Lagos State Government, the festival also guarantees high visibility, media coverage and networking opportunities for artists and organisations alike.
Curtain Call
So whether you’re a theatre junkie, a creative on the grind, or just someone who loves a good show, LITF 2025 is calling your name.
Follow updates on LITF’s official website and Instagram @officiallitfest_, or take the leap by submitting your play for consideration.
Lagos is ready. The stage is set. All that’s missing is you.
This is not your average theatre fest; it’s a full-blown cultural takeover.
