News
The Noble Warrior for Soyinka at 91
Nigerian-American playwright and producer, Cash Onadele, also known as Aiye-Ko-Ooto, will stage The Noble Warrior (Eni Ogun) in honour of Nobel Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka, who turns 91 on July 13. The production will run from July 11 to 13 at Glover Memorial Hall,Lagos, with two shows daily — a 3 pm matinee and a 6 pm champagne show.
A suspense-filled Black musical theatre, the play blends music, dance and drama to celebrate Soyinka’s legacy. Organisers said this year’s edition will feature an innovative set design and immersive audience experience.
Reflecting on last year’s edition, organisers noted the need for more audience engagement. This year, souvenir books and branded merchandise will be included. “We are going for glamour and depth,” they said. Artistic director, Ade Fila, returns with an updated vision. The team also plans to stage student-focused versions at University of Lagos and University of Ibadan, and others with subsidised tickets.
The long-term goal is to make the production annual, with other works like Moriti Ometa and Ajogi (The Foreigner), for a broader literary fiesta.
Though Soyinka’s attendance has not been confirmed, organisers remain hopeful.
“This is more than a tribute,” they said, “it is a celebration of legacy and a push toward the future of Nigerian theatre.”
