Isale Eko, a new musical production commemorating Lagos State's 50th Anniversary, comes to the United Kingdom during Black History Month in October 2017.
The play which tells the story of the rich and vibrant culture of Lagos, is backed by a strong creative team and cast.
It is a fictional account set in the 14th century, using a combination of song and dance to drive a story of romance and family feuds amongst the slave trade and power struggles. Isale Eko is based upon historical facts and is adapted from a book with a similar title. The play is written by William Benson while the Executive Producer is Joseph Edgar, a banker turned theatre Producer, whose previous credits include Loud Whispers.
The play opened to sell-out performances last Easter at the prestigious MUSON Centre, Onikan in Lagos. With over 4000 people attending 4 shows in a 1000-seater auditorium.
Isale Eko
Executive Producer and Writer of Isale Eko - Joseph Edgar stated why this is an important play for everyone: "Isale Eko leans heavily on the very rich culture of not only the Yorubas but also the cultures of the Portuguese, Spanish, and Brazilians who all make up the threads that have been interwoven over a 400-year period in making Isale Eko the great civilization it is today. In song and dance, the audience would be treated to a display of visual excellence told through dance and song, while learning Lagos history.”
The play was endorsed by the Lagos State Governor - Akinwunmi Ambode and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations. Lagos State has a drive to support the creative arts. Acting Commissioner for Tourism said: “The governor takes personal interest in the creative industry particularly theatre. He has demonstrated his passion towards growing the theatre industry in Nigeria”