Adubiifa Network Company (ANC), a leading multi-media literary, theatre, and movie company, is set to thrill Nigeria’s drama and theatre scene with the public presentation of the stage play, “The Noble Warrior – Eni Ogun”.
Written by Aiye-ko-ooto, directed by Oriade Adefila, and produced by Cash Onadele, “The Noble Warrior” will be performed in honour of Yoruba Culture Ambassador, National Icon, and Global Literary Giant, Professor Oluwole Soyinka, to commemorate his 90th birthday.
In collaboration with the Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange (WSICE), the stage play is scheduled to premiere on July 15th, 2024, at 6pm in Abeokuta at the Hubert Ogunde Hall of the June 12 Cultural Centre. Following this, there will be four shows in Lagos at the MUSON Centre on July 20th and 21st, with two performances daily at 3pm and 6pm.
The production boasts a carefully selected cast and technical crew, showcasing a storyline that mirrors the life and persona of Wole Soyinka. The play highlights Soyinka’s traits as a fighter and a humane warrior throughout his 90-year journey.
The plot centres around Oluwole, a noble warrior who longs for a quiet life of hunting, teaching, and romancing his beloved, Olasope. Unbeknownst to him, Olasope’s fervent wish becomes the subject of a bet between a wizard and a witch. Oluwole’s new mission becomes freeing his homeland from British rule, prompted by his adversary Gbadamosi’s scheme involving Major Scott deflowering Olasope.
At the heart of the drama is the theme of a single arrow representing conscience, piercing the crossroads of corruption, colonialism, and the crown.
Following the initial performances in Abeokuta and Lagos, this commemorative tribute to Wole Soyinka is expected to tour selected cities across Nigeria.
