“Loud Whispers” Stage Play: New Hope for Nigerian Theatre

Theatre in Nigeria was reborn on Workers` day – Sunday, May 1^st when Comedy maestro Ali Baba, supported by a 20-man cast gave a scintillating genre-crossing performance in the much anticipated satirical stage play Loud Whispers. A play adapted from the same-titled book written by socio-political commentator cum investment banker, Joseph Edgar.

The play which held at the Agip Recital Hall, Muson Centre at 1pm, 3pm and 6pm (command performance) hosted theatre enthusiasts to a mind-blowing theatrical experience as Ali Baba alongside other thespians such as Patrick Diabuah, Paul Alumona, Tony Offiong, Kehinde Fasuyi, Nissi George, Olarotimi Fakunle, Yemi Oyewo, Inna Erizia, Toyin Oshinaike, Toritseju Ejoh, Charles Alumona, and Chantal Edgar, gave life to Joseph Edgar`s collection of humorous satires celebrating the Nigerian spirit and new hope to Nigerian theatre through all three performances. Ali Baba brought exceptional brilliance and energy into his performance as he played Ali Okiemute, whose family`s journey depicts the experiences of a typical Nigerian family through various economic dispensations.

The Managing Director of Katunga Media, Betty Abang, presenters of the play, said: “it was such a thrilling experience, feedback from the audience revealed tremendous acceptance and a yearning for a repeat of the performance. Loud Whispers is a story that every Nigerian can relate with. The play makes bold to say what people will otherwise not divulge, and the story touches on themes that cut through all strata of the society.”

Each show lasted for two hours as every scene, move, song, dance and word told the Nigerian story in the most acerbic yet humorous way that stunned the audience. Each scene weaved through the famous “Agege” bread seller turned supermodel story, the infamous “what if you are a widow? Go and die” story, a prominent politician’s 3-page letter, amongst other themes.

Also highlighted were the prevalent issues of fuel scarcity, Boko Haram insurgency, political instability, and the unfortunate kidnap of the Chibok girls, all narrated in the most comical yet thought-stirring way that left audiences giving resounding applause scene after scene.

One of the highlights of the day was budding 12- year old actress Chantel Edgar, who played one of the rescued Chibok girls. She delivered a heart-wrenching monologue that left the audience in tears as they clapped. She cried for peace and asked that the younger generation be given the chance to lead Nigeria. Then veteran actor Tunde Alabi gave a brief but heart-warming performance with his elderly wisdom and long-standing experience that awakened memories of the good old soap opera Village Headmaster in which he played “Aditu.”

Popular broadcaster, Olisa Adibua, was the Executive Producer of the play, whilst Joseph Edgar, Shina Peller of Quilox and Mofoluwake Edgar were co-producers. The play was adapted and directed by thespian, scriptwriter, and artistic director behind Quebic 4 Productions, William Benson.

Zenith Bank, AIICO, AXA Mansard, Bank of Industry, FCMB, Wellness HMO, Rain Oil, Uber and Quilox all teamed up to sponsor this maiden edition.

Katunga Media, a leading African marketing communication agency, brought the play to theatre lovers.

This article was originally published on Olisa.TV. Reposted with permission. Read the original article.