Iya-Ale to be staged at Muson, National Theatre

Set in 1980’s Lagos, the hilarious and yet thought provoking Iya-Ale focuses on the political hysteria and social change sweeping Nigeria in the 80’s. The small sized cast play is centred on an elitist family, the Adeyemi’s and their interactions with one another and their staff and how the social and political repartee between the […]

Set in 1980’s Lagos, the hilarious and yet thought provoking Iya-Ale focuses on the political hysteria and social change sweeping Nigeria in the 80’s. The small sized cast play is centred on an elitist family, the Adeyemi’s and their interactions with one another and their staff and how the social and political repartee between the military and the civilians affects them all. In the play, that was first staged at the Calabar Festival in 2009, the lady of the Manor Toyin Adeyemi turns 50 and in preparation for her party the household is in chaos, her sons are more concerned with starting revolutions and chasing young girls while the maid Helen waits for her chance to elevate her status.
Bikiya, daughter of Former Aviation and at a time Culture and Tourism Minister Alabo Graham Douglas explained that the idea behind re-staging the play is borne out of the desire of BUAF to contribute ‘to the rejuvenation of the culture of theatre in Nigeria by providing opportunities for people to access performances. At BUAF we believe that the culture of theatre is an integral part of our culture and heritage as very expressive people that we cannot allow to be lost’. Besides Bikiya a University of Portsmouth and Oxford School of Drama trained theatre artiste says BUAF exist to create opportunities for individuals to explore their talent and equip them with skills for their advancement. A press night scheduled for the Muson Centre on November 26 will precede the public presentation of the show billed for the National Theatre on November 27 and 28.