By Yinka Akanbi
Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial nerve-centre, is famous for being one of the best places to see plays, musicals and other theatre shows. And there is no better time to go and see one than the yuletide season!
Whether you’re looking to have a day out with your family after touring the Christmas markets or are looking for some present inspiration, there’s plenty to catch on stage this holiday season.
So, here’s a rundown of four of the best Lagos theatre shows you can catch this holiday season:
*1. Kakadu The Musical*
Award-winning total theatre feast, and undoubtedly, one of Nigeria’s ‘box office success stories,’ Kakadu is based on several pivotal events that happened in Nigeria between 1965 and 1974, the watershed years immediately following independence from British colonial rule, leading to the Nigerian Civil War and the aftermath of that war. Kakadu The Musical, written and produced, surprisingly by one of the leading lawyers in Nigeria, Uche Nwokedi, follows the journey of four friends through a time of the infinite possibilities, a time to dream and to hope.
The award-winning play will run from December 28th to 30th at the Shell Hall, MUSON Centre, Lagos
*2. Saro The Musical*
Saro the Musical is a Nigerian Broadway-style musical showcase produced by Bolanle Austen-Peters Production. Set in modern day Lagos, Saro portrays the lives of four young men who are determined to become successful despite frustration and perennial lack of opportunities to explore their musical talents and realise their dreams. It tells a story of their journey from the comfort of their multi-ethnic villages seeking a better life in the city of Lagos, which is seen as a land of freedom and opportunities. On getting to Lagos, they find that not all that glitters is gold and “blowing” will take more than just a stroke of luck.
‘Saro The Musical’ will run between December 22nd and 24th, 26th and 30th 2023 as well as 1st and 2nd of January 2024.
*3. The King Must Dance Naked*
Written by ace playwright and lawyer Fred Agbeyegbe in 1983, the story dwells on the unbalanced laws guiding human existence and how a queen tried to twist them. ‘The King Must Dance Naked’ delves into the rich history, culture, and traditions of the Ishekiri people. Agbeyegbe’s story explores the intricate relationship between the gods and society, as well as the weight of leadership.
After the coronation of Omajuwa as the King in Ogbodume, the land is plagued by famine, drought, and diseases. The root cause is believed to be the King’s inability to have an heir. However, the mystery unfolds when Mejebi appears.
Courtesy of Lufodo Productions, the play will be staged this December 22-24; 29-30; and January 5-7 at Glover Memorial Hall, Lagos.
*4. Duke Has Gone Mad Again, Exhale*
‘Our Duke Has Gone Mad Again’ is a beautifully written anthology of works running the whole gamut of emotions ranging from excitement at life, down to the sharp pain of sorrow occasioned by the loss of a loved one. It will serve as a guide and an arrowhead on the way to self-reawakening. It will also provide unusual entertainment while addressing issues of life and living.
This year’s will focus on the crucial issues of prostate cancer. It is billed to run on 23rd and 24th of December 2023 at the Agip Recital Hall, Muson Centre, Lagos.
