uke of Shomolu Productions is set to present two plays, “A Trail of Choices” and “Anonymous Nipples,” which explore intricate themes like sexuality, pain and fidelity.
According to the Duke at the production company, Joseph Edgar, in this interview with thelagosreview, the contradiction of a soft romantic play and the mischievous and overtly annoying “Anonymous Nipples” was just too much to resist.
He goes on to add that the idea has always been to taunt and annoy Nigerians.
Both plays carry the same message which, he says, is to ensure better communications in romance and relationships but explore very different vehicles in achieving its purposes. “A Trail of Choices” is very mellow and pursues a softer hue and good for romantics while “Anonymous Nipples” is annoyingly bold. It slams you and says it as it is. Complete with swear words and erotic dances.
The stage plays are set to take the audience on a roller-coaster of emotions and exploration, with performances scheduled respectively for August 26th and 27th, 2023 at 4 pm and 6 pm each day.
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind presenting “A Trail of Choices” and “Anonymous Nipples” as part of the Duke of Shomolu Productions?
I really do not get inspired by anything. It hits me and I move. It hit me to drop these two plays when I want to drop them and I drop them, finish.
But on a more humbler note, the contradiction of a soft romantic play and the mischievous and overtly annoying “Anonymous Nipples” was just too much to resist.
Both of these plays explore intricate themes like sexuality, pain and fidelity. What motivated you to choose such complex subjects for your stage productions?
The idea has always been to taunt and annoy Nigerians. We enjoy and are curious about these bold themes albeit very privately and hypocritically, so the idea is to bring the subjects out there and marvel at Nigerians as we excitingly watch and enjoy it as it unfolds even in our public discomfort. Let’s just say the shock value is the elixir.
This is clearly different from the body of work you have come to be known for, which is historical theatre. Is this what your audience will get going forward?
I have done something like this in the past. We did Threesome which explored incest in a very unnerving way.
Yes, we are known for our historical masterpieces but would also once in a while delve into the sublime in our bid to further build society from the ground up.
How does the experience of watching “A Trail of Choices” differ from that of “Anonymous Nipples”? What can the audience expect from each of these performances?
Both carry the same message, which is to ensure better communications in romance and relationships but explore very different vehicles in achieving its purposes.
“A trail of Choices” is very mellow and pursues a softer hue and good for romantics while “Anonymous Nipples” is annoyingly bold. It slams you and says it as it is. Complete with swear words, erotic dance, a slew of nudity and punchy verbalisation. “Anonymous Nipples” will annoy you
Director William Benson has been integral to bringing these stories to life. Could you share your collaboration process and what makes his vision so suited for these productions?
William is a force. He understands my vision and I don’t need to talk too much before he understands what I want to achieve. Massively talented and specially driven, William just gets me and this is why our collaboration has become magical
“Anonymous Nipples” promises to challenge societal norms and provoke thought-provoking discussions. How do you envision this play contributing to important conversations about sexuality and exploration?
It has already become a signpost for those discussions. Do not forget that the book was written 2 years ago and it sold over 5,000 copies and this is what has emboldened us to bring it on stage
With DOSF’s focus on thought-provoking content, what do you hope the audience will take away from experiencing these plays?
I know the audience would have their horizons widened. They should be able to start seeing love and life in its total visage rather than the narrow prisms that do not allow for the total fulfilment in love and life.
Can you share any behind-the-scenes anecdotes or challenges faced while preparing for these performances?
You know what is going on in the country. William and I have had a hard time trying to balance creativity with commercial constraints. Cast size have been drastically reduced and our star Actress Marvellous is really afraid of the four dogs that litter Segun Adefila’s rehearsal venue.
Moyo Lawal on the other hand was first afraid of the swear words but she is now an expert in shouting F…. Y…
The Muson Centre holds a special place in the hearts of many art enthusiasts. How did you decide that this venue was the perfect setting for presenting these plays?
Muson is the home of DOSF. We have done all of our plays in Lagos except one at the place. It is a purpose built venue and very central to our markets. The staff are experts in managing theatre productions and the support continues to be amazing
Could you talk about the significance of your partnership with FirstBank and Amstel in bringing these stage plays to life?
FirstBank is unfortunately not with us on this production but continues to be one of our most credible supporters.
Amstel malt, on the other hand, are strongly with us on this production and continue to to be very strategic as we evolve
How can people secure their tickets for “A Trail of Choices” and “Anonymous Nipples”? Can you provide some details about the ticket prices and the platforms available for ticket purchase?
www.wakanow.ng and www.ariyatickets.com or simply just call me on 09095325791
N5,000 N20, 000 and N25, 000
As an executive producer, what excites you the most about presenting these stage plays to the audience?
The intimacy between the audience and the actors on stage kills me. Nothing else matters once I sense that.
What message or impact do you hope these performances will leave on the audience members after they leave the theatre?
Mouth opening amazement. That’s all
Can you share any upcoming plans or projects that Duke of Shomolu Productions has in the pipeline after these stage plays?
FAJUYI the story of the Ekiti soldier who gave his life for Nigeria during the coup in the 60s is coming up. It will be used to celebrate His excellency the Ekiti State Governors one year in office
How do you see the role of theatre evolving in today’s digital age, and how does DOSF plan to stay relevant and engaging for audiences in the future?
We will remain relevant till eternity because we push our essence as a people. Digital construct will partner us and enable us to achieve our goals seamlessly. So, we embrace it
I’m guessing that DOSF is one and the same with Duke of Shomolu Productions; is that correct?
DOSF is our Foundation arm that will use theatre to empower and engage while DOSP is our production arm that caters for our media and outreach programmes.
