A new stage play titled, The Discourse, premiered recently at the Alliance Française, Ikoyi, Lagos, spotlighting pressing socio-cultural issues across Nigeria’s major ethnic groups.
Written and directed by the creative director of Ankara and Black Playhouse, Boluwatife Orimolade, the play delves into the lived experiences of Nigerians — from the Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa ethnicities — through powerful storytelling, monologues, dance, chants, spoken word, and music.
According to Orimolade, the production addresses gender-based violence, child marriage, neglect, bullying, and class-based discrimination, highlighting the effects of silence and cultural complicity.
“This play is about opening people up to tough conversations. We are not just entertaining, we are informing; saying that this is what is happening, and here’s what you can do to change it.”
He added that the project, estimated at N20m, is supported by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, National Theatre, and Alliance Française.
This was even as he noted that plans were underway to take the performance on a tour across Lagos, reaching communities in Badagry, Epe, Igando, University of Lagos, Ikorodu, and other underserved areas.
Myde Glover, an actor who played multiple characters including an Almajiri leader, a bullied student, and a young adult navigating trauma, shared how challenging it was to embody so many diverse and emotionally intense roles.
“Each role was heavy. But, I hope people walk away knowing that it’s okay to stand up, speak up, and be the change.”
