Wole Olanipekun and Co., a legal firm, has finalised plans to partner The Duke of Shomolu Productions, a Play staging outfit, on annual theatrical plays espousing national unity.
A statement by Yemi Shodimu, Director, Shomolu Productions, said that the plays would also seek to promote other values aimed at fostering national cohesion.
It quoted Joseph Edgar, Executive Chairman, Duke of Shomolu Productions, as emphasising the need to continue to push for national consensus using very strong socio-cultural imperatives.
Edgar said that the partnership would execute some of the most inspiring theatrical productions that would tell stories of strong leadership, passionate engagements and cultural depth.
“It is our conviction that these stories will go a long way in inspiring emerging leadership as we seek to rebuild the fabric of our Nation.
“Already, the partnership will be staging its inaugural play this October in Abuja as part of the National Day activities.
“Sardauna, a Play, written by Prof. Ahmed Yerima, a renowned playwright, is among those to be staged.
“It is an intriguing look at the last moments in the life of iconic leader and former Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello, throwing up his deep love for Nigeria.
“It also opens up the trado-cultural traits of Northern Nigeria for better understanding of our youths specifically, and Nigerians as a whole.
“The National Troupe of Nigeria will be playing a very major role in these Productions with its Artistic Director/CEO, Mohammed Ahmed, serving as a co- Executive Producer.
“Sardauna is expected to attract the presence of President Mohammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osibajo, governors, members of the National Assembly, among others.
“The two-day Fiesta will be open to the public who are not required to pay any gate fees as the legal firm will be covering all expenses.”
Other plays include ‘Ladi Kwali’ to be directed by Prof Ojo Bakare, Nigeria’s first Professor of Dance and current Commissioner for Culture and Arts in Ekiti State, he added.
“The goal is to heal Nigeria through song, dance and storytelling,” the statement said.
(NAN)
