Lagos, the bustling hub of art and culture, witnessed a theatrical storm at the Lagos International Theatre Festival (LITF). It wasn’t just drama; it was an artistic downpour that left the city drenched in creativity and applause.
Bolanle Austen-Peters spearheaded what felt like a renaissance for live theatre, hosting the LITF, a festival like no other since the inception of theatre arts in Nigeria.
With over 20 plays staged across four venues (AGIP Hall, MUSON Lawn, Glover Hall, and UNILAG), the festival brought together a kaleidoscope of art lovers from across Africa, especially Lagos, the heartbeat of Nigerian theatre. The event, spanning two vibrant days (November 16-17), wasn’t just a festival; it was a celebration of storytelling, workshops, and panel discussions that captured the essence of human experiences.
Event Overview
The festival started with a thought-provoking panel session, Conversations and Culture Unmasked – Behind the Curtain, held at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture. The buzz continued with a colorful opening ceremony at Terra Kulture, followed by a whirlwind of performances happening simultaneously across all venues on Saturday. The curtains finally came down on Sunday with an electrifying closing performance by none other than Broda Shaggi.
Plays That Stole the Spotlight
Metsi (Water)
Produced by SKETCH Productions, Metsi delves into the spiritual and dramatic challenges of survival in a flood-ridden community. A deeply relatable tale, it leaves you pondering the forces that shape human destiny.
Without a Kiss
Directed by Isaac MK Kalumba, this play illuminates themes of abuse and resilience. Its gripping narrative explores the lives of women navigating an unfair world.
Dear Kaffy
Bolanle Austen-Peters weaves a relatable story of three single women tackling the hurdles of modern relationships. It’s every bit as hilarious as it is heartwarming.
High
This coming-of-age drama by Road14 Studios explores the truth behind a group of teenagers’ lives. Directed by Temi Ami-Williams, it’s a blend of humor, conflict, and revelation.
The Call
Written by Bimbo Manual, this play presents an Evangelist grappling with divine visits and life-altering conversations.
Idia: The Warrior Queen of Benin
Celebrating Queen Idia, this captivating production showcases the tale behind FESTAC ’77 and the legacy of the Benin Kingdom.
Other Amazing Plays That Were Featured
Anatomy of a Woman:
A romantic comedy about the daily challenges of unmarried women.
Interception:
A humorous take on the PCV (Peace Corps Volunteer) postcard incident in Ibadan in 1961.
Who Tiff Monalisa?:
A Pan-African painter’s plot to steal Leonardo Da Vinci’s works.
The Human Angle:
A poignant journey of a couple’s profound love tested by infertility.
Olikperebu Mi:
An epic folk story of a princess blinded by her high standards in men.
A Coffin Man in Love:
A coffin maker’s battle between finding a wife and economic chaos.
The Divorce of Lawino:
A play based on Okot p’Bitek’s poems, dramatizing a clash of aspirations within a marriage.
My Mother, My Sister:
A play exploring the expectations and disappointments of being a parent.
Resentment:
A woman’s survival of sickle cell disorder and her resentment towards her parents.
Satchmo at the Waldorf:
A one-man, three-character play portraying Louis Armstrong, his manager, and Miles Davis.
Conjugation of Bastards:
A conflict between two kingdoms over a piece of land rumored to house gold and precious stones.
Plato’s Psychosis:
A gripping drama exploring art vs. philosophy, emotional expression, and the healing power of creativity.
Kolo:
A poignant conversation between two individuals deemed “mad” by society, shedding light on social issues.
Wanted In-laws:
A woman’s empowerment in a patriarchal family.
Maami:
A mother’s disapproval of her children’s fundraising parties for their expensive wedding.
Broda Shaggi wrapped up the festival with his trademark wit and humor, delivering a performance that was equal parts hilarious and poignant. His act, infused with relatable Nigerian experiences, was the perfect ending to a weekend of theatrical brilliance.
LITF wasn’t just a festival; it was a reminder of the transformative power of theatre. From laugh-out-loud moments to soul-searching narratives, the festival left the audience eagerly awaiting the next season. If you missed it, well, there’s always next year—just don’t say we didn’t warn you!
