by Sola Fasasi

If art is food for the soul, then theatre is one of its finest feasts. A few of decades ago, theatre in Nigeria thrived. The National Theatre in Lagos and hubs all over the country served as platforms for the best plays, musicals and shows to be performed and enjoyed. Renowned playwrights, directors and actors such as Wole Soyinka, Kole Omotosho, Jimi Solanke and many others gained international prominence and paved the way for a new generation of theatre practitioners. Sadly, over the years things changed and the theatre culture in Nigeria seemed to diminish.

However, we have seen a renaissance in the past few years. The success of show-stopping productions such as The Vagina Monologues, Oluronbi, The Tarzan Monologues and many more have shown that there is still much to be achieved in Nigerian theatre. Recently, even Fela! the Broadway musical, came to Nigeria, and it’s phenomenal success showed that the culture of theatre is still alive in Nigerians.

Still though, many actors, writers, directors and producers constantly seek a place where they can find new talents, as well as appreciate excellent theatrical performances.

Enter Open Mic Theatre!

Founded by talented and passionate actress Kemi ‘Lala’ Akindoju, this event is targeted at promoting the theatre culture in Nigeria. “At Open Mic Theatre we create a comfortable environment for artistic people, as well as a platform where fresh and talented actors and writers can be discovered,” she said.

The maiden edition of Open Mic Theatre will hold at 7:00pm on the 6th of August at The Life House, Victoria Island. With outstanding performances from several talented actors such as Bimbo Manuel, Kate Henshaw-Nuttal, Najite Dede, OC Ukeje, Kemi ‘Lala’ Akindoju, Omonor Somolu, Bikiya Graham-Douglas and many other excellent performers, the event is set to mark a turning point in the history of Nigerian theatre.

“It promises to be entertaining and revealing,” said Lala.

Call it a revival of the arts!

Oluwapelumi