Veteran star actors Nobert Young and Akin Lewis are some of the names that will attend the 2024 edition of TheatreMania Africa Summit (TAS).
This was made known in a recent statement from the organisers of the event.
The summit, according to the organisers, is part of the build-up activities lined up for Theatre Arts/Stage Play lovers and stakeholders to herald the 2025 edition of the TheatreMania Africa Festival (TAF) and Awards, scheduled for Lagos, Nigeria.
Expected at the summit are theatre production companies, Guilds of Actors, Dancers, drummers, singers, theatre arts students across the country, stage play directors/producers, writers, festival organisers and as many stakeholders in the theatre/creative arts space in the country.
In his speech, the CEO/Co-Founder, TheatreMania Africa Festival (TAF), Alayande Stephen said, “We are happy to announce the list of the Speakers and Panelists for this year’s TheatreMania Africa Summit (TAS) as part of the activities to unveil the festival next year. Today we must accept that life itself is evolving, hence, theatre production must evolve and the African theatre industry must not be seen to be lagging. TAS 2024 will showcase how
technology can propel African theatre to a global standard. It is indeed from tradition to transformation, echoing innovation at the heart of African Theatre.”
Scheduled to hold on November 28, other confirmed speakers and panelists include Dr. Tunji Sotimirin, Thandekile Maseko, Segun Adefila, Julius Olaolu Oyekanmi, Zani Challe, Lydia Hagan, Owen Gee, Joseph Edgar, AJ Dagga Tolar, Kingsley Omoefe, Helen Sosu-Ezirim, and Uwagbai Paul amongst others.
Ikuforiji Olaitan, aka Oxlade, has opined that he is a perfectionist. He made this known in a podcast after the release of his new album entitled ‘OFA -Oxlade From Africa’ He said, “I’m a perfectionist—I’m a Taurus, and I like to fulfil what my mind wants.” Oxlade further explained how he made the album, which was influenced by his visits to several places and cohabiting with strange people.
“I was trying to make a body of work, not a playlist, so I had to experience life for me to be able to make this kind of music. I had to go through different phases, I had to travel to different cities, to even just co-exist with the people, to be able to know the kind of feeling that I’ll be able to convert into music,” he said. Continuing, he said, “All this process took me time, and also, I had personal family issues that made [me] stop… making music for a long while. I’m just grateful to be back; I’m grateful to be alive to be able to still make this music and achieve what I want. I wouldn’t want to put out music that I wouldn’t be able to enjoy, and that’s why it took this long.”
Fast rising artiste, TMP Offisial, has recently opened up about a minor setback with his label, Aura Music Inc.
TMP revealed that the journey has had its ups and downs, but with open communication and understanding, both parties have come to a positive agreement, paving the way for more exciting releases.
In a recent social media post, TMP Offisial shared how the label had initially set expectations for an album tour and upcoming releases. After meetings for reconciliation, both parties reached a mutual understanding that honours both the artiste’s creativity and the label’s vision.
This newfound harmony has already begun to bear fruit, starting with the highly-anticipated single ‘Everyday’ featuring TI Blaze.
Seasoned actress Ijeoma Richards has weighed in on the alarming rate of actors’ health decline due to marathon film shoots.
In a passionate appeal, Richards urged movie producers to consider actors’ wellbeing, citing sleep deprivation, high blood pressure, diabetes, and even renal failure as consequences of excessive filming.
Richards lamented that finishing shoots at 11 pm has become the new norm, with cast and crew often working beyond midnight. This, she argued, has led to a disturbing rise in actors managing underlying illnesses. Richards emphasised that producers’ greed and disregard for actors’ health must stop.
Richards said: “The consequence of this inconsiderate quest for 90 scenes in 3 days is that there will come a time something will have to give, that more deaths will become the norm amongst us if we refuse to use our senses. “This is a call for common sense to prevail. And for our health and lives to become as important as the films we make. Let us stop this rush that has driven many film industry practitioners into the medication superhighway and some into the grave.
“The above concerns are even without the security aspect. Anytime there’s a car on the road past midnight, 4 of 10 times. It’s likely an actor heading home from a shoot.”
•How Nigerian medical institution nearly killed me
Veteran Nigerian actress, Ngozi Nwosu, has made her mark on the Nigerian film scene with several productions to her name. She became a big name after appearing on the late Amaka Igwe’s rested soap opera, ‘Checkmate’ and later ‘Fuji House of Commotion’ and has gone on to register her name as one of Nigeria’s prolific role interpreters. She opened up to The NATION’s GBENGA BADA on her life, career, and marriage amongst other things in this interview.
You’ve been in the industry for a long time. Looking back now, what do you think has changed in the industry?
I don’t think you want us to go today if we start talking about change. So many, so many things have changed. Some have changed for the better, while some have changed for the worse.
Can you share a bit of both with us?
Okay. In those days, we were all one in the industry. We had each other’s back. But today, in fact, you are on your own. If they have to step on you to pass, they will step on you and pass, not minding. So that is one. Two, before in those days, there was jealousy, but it had a level. There were levels of jealousy. But now, if they step on you to go blind, nobody cares. But before, they would at least say, “Okay, let’s step on one eye, let’s leave the other one.” But now, oh God, in fact, if you leave your liver, they will step on it, blend it, and throw it away.
Is there a personal story to this?
No.
If you look at work ethics between your peers and the reigning stars, which category would you say does it better?
Please, withdraw. Eh, God. My God. Haven’t you heard of old wine? Old wine will forever taste better than the new ones. Though we have some of them that are really good, but I’m sorry to say, most of them are wishy-washy. Yes, an actor who is not versatile, who cannot lift his or herself from one role to the other. What we have now are people selling markets.
When you say selling markets, what exactly do you mean?
Well, what I meant by selling their market is simple. We have people who don’t really care these days about role interpretations. All they care about is how they look, whether their cleavage is really out, whether their leg is popping. That’s what we have these days. These days everybody can be artificial. You know it’s very hard now to see the original because if the nails are artificial, even eye, they can buy it now. From head to toe might be a fake.
You were on one of the biggest shows back then on TV and you had a followership for your character. If you look back, how does that make you feel compared to now?
You can say that again. Well, actually it was the fame that I acquired that time that really saved me when I needed help because the person who actually called the Lagos State governor did so because I was her favourite actor. That’s why when she heard that I was down, she called them and said “do not let this person go. It’s who I love.”
Now that you have taken us to that time of your sickness, how did it make you feel hearing what some people said about you faking the ailment among other tales?
People played ‘Who wants to be a millionaire?’ for me. When they saw me that time, how was I looking? If I was doing it to make money, may that sickness come upon the person. That’s all I would say. People saw me now, two people played for my life. Look, the backlash that I faced that time is something I don’t ever want to remember in my life because it got to a stage, some people were concorting rumours, there was rumour that I was dead. There was rumour that I was in Germany while I was in my house. There was a rumour that I had travelled all over. Meanwhile, I was still in my house in Nigeria. Yes. And the painful part of it is, the journalists, oh God. Nothing pains like when a journalist decides to kill you and kill you in your very before, with, “from the horse’s mouth.” Now, who is the horse? Who is the mouth? Oh God. From the horse’s, is that not supposed to be from a reliable source? Meanwhile, you people were writing rubbish that I was not even aware of. And yet you claim from the horse’s mouth. Abeg, who is the horse? See, that period was an era, I just give God the glory. I don’t even want to revisit it. Or is it, when I travelled to London for my treatment, the lady I took with me, the family called her and said, “Ah, she went to sell her kidney?” Oh God. Ah, somebody I paid for, to just go and take care of me there. Then the family called, “Eh, they heard that you are now in London selling your kidney.”
You also had a not-too-pleasant experience with the Nigerian medical institution. Can you tell us about it?
Yes sir, they almost killed me. Abeg, I don’t want to go there. They almost killed me. Thank God for going abroad.
But with all the tales and probably with what you’ve gained from someone who called somebody in higher authority to support you and all that would you say you regret having fame at that point in time?
Ah, well, I wouldn’t say that. But, it’s good to be famous in the right way, because fame actually paves the way for you in so many areas. But, I want to tell our press people, please, be authentic with what you are writing. And if you are not authentic, please say, so-so and so-so things happened. Don’t, don’t say you are from the horse’s mouth. Horse, as in how? I don’t understand.
You are not a Yoruba woman but you speak Yoruba very well. Can you tell us how you learned the language?
(Laughs) Hey, me that I stayed in Lagos until now. I was not born in Lagos but I came to Lagos when I was a kid and I grew up understanding the language.
Okay. Now, did you feel somehow that when you were ill, it was the Lagos State government that came to your aid and not your own state government?
Please, don’t, don’t let’s go there because I’ve personally said that there’s nothing my state will call me for. Ah, they will pay through their nose for me to be there.
Where are you from?
I’m from Arochukwu in Abia State.
Many people believe you were never married, what is the true state?
No, point of correction, I was married. Okay. I was a Mrs. We separated. I was married before and my ex-husband is late.
Did you get married as an actress or before acting came along?
Yes. My, my late husband, though he’s, he’s late. May he rest in perfect was a dancer.
So, he was also a creative person?
Yes.
So what was marriage like then?
Well, every walk of life has its ups and downs. So obviously, I mean, as a wife, it was okay because I planned. If you don’t plan, you will fail. So when I have productions, I plan my home down. That “Ogbeni, sorry I’m not available, but I’ve cooked everything. You can help yourself.” That was how we were doing it.
But what was your relationship after you both separated, before his death?
We were separated and he got married to somebody else before his death. He only died last year. But we were no longer together.
But you had a cordial relationship?
Yes.
Now, tell me, these days, when producers call you to play roles, what do you look for in a script?
Hmm. There has to be depth. In a script, there has to be depth.
So if I offer you a script now that is meaningless and I’m paying well, you’re not going to do it?
Ah, no. We will sit down. I will point out the problem I see there. And if you don’t want to make corrections, ah, we’ll move because I have come this far and I will not allow my name to be rubbished, to be put in the mud.
Bimbo Akintola granted an interview recently, where she said a lot of actresses are actually living a fake life because the kind of money she sees actresses throw around and push around is not available in the industry. What is your opinion on that?
For the one you said, Bimbo talked about actresses throwing money up and down, down and up. We all know how far. Because, me, that I’m here, I know that I have worked. And I am still working. And I know where I am. Did you see any Lamborghini parked in my compound? No. Because I am not doing any shady business.
But don’t you think that maybe the younger ones with social media, there are a lot of other things they could do to make money?
I know. I know. I know. But that is not up to the amount… Jesus! Leave this thing. You are a media person. I’m a media person, we must not deceive ourselves. So even if you are into other businesses, we know how far with the income now.
So what would you advise a young child who wants to be an actor to do?
For the up-and-coming people, my advice is this. School first. Because these days, the young ones have learned one thing and I don’t welcome it. They think that all that glitter is gold. So they want to cut corners. I have gone to schools where I went to give motivational talks and when I leave, these students will ask for my phone number. And when I give it to them, what they ask me for is alarming. And I’m like, face your studies now. Leave that thing. Face your book. Get the certificate first. Then you can diversify. You can do whatever you want to. I remember a lady who said her parents wanted her to be a lawyer and then she went to school and became a lawyer. After school, she threw it away. And what she wanted was business and a salon. And that’s what she’s doing. And she’s prospering. So for me, my advice to the younger ones, please, education is the key, first and foremost. And that is when you will not be cheated. You would know better if you were educated.
The film industry keeps getting bigger with streaming platforms, regular TVs, cinemas, and social media content creators who engage your services. Which of these platforms would you say gives you more in terms of remuneration and fame?
I would say TV. TV does because it’s all over. Now, I know that YouTube is another way to gain popularity. But it’s not as big as television.
In 2024, Creative mind, Igiebor Daddy Lucky who is behind IVY-K Fashion has introduced his new design expertise to the forefront with his latest collection, Ivoy Man. This line explores modern interpretations of the agbada, a garment steeped in Nigerian cultural heritage, by blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary design sensibilities. While the collection succeeds in celebrating heritage, certain aspects could benefit from a more refined approach.
Talking about the Ivoy Man collection, he said that it is centered around the agbada, a staple of Nigerian native wear, recognized for its flowing elegance and dignified presence. Igiebor Daddy Lucky honors this tradition by maintaining classic shapes and cuts, lending the garments a sense of timelessness. His fabric selection—ranging from rich cotton blends to luxurious silks—demonstrates his commitment to both comfort and sophistication, ensuring the outfits feel as impressive as they look.
An earthy color palette defines the collection, with tones like olive green, beige, and deep brown as the foundation, lending versatility and a sleek appeal. Occasional bursts of brighter hues, such as mustard yellow or vibrant maroon, bring fresh contrast without overwhelming the eye, striking a balance between boldness and subtlety.
As October 2024 rounded off, Modupeola Lawal emerged the happiest individual as she turned 70.
To welcome her into the world of Septuagenarians, the retired Chief Librarian of the Lagos State College Of Education in Ijanikin, was celebrated by all and sundry in the far away United Kingdom.
For the auspicious event, Engineer Tajudeen Lawal, the CEO, Tilaw Engineering firm and husband to Modupe, decided to roll out carpets and fete family, friends and associates at a well- attended gathering.
The ceremony and gathering of society big wigs from Nigeria, UK, Canada and the United States of America, was held at the Brentwood Cathedral of St Mary and St. Helen on Ingrave road, Brentwood.
The event also had Prince Kolade Roberts, the CEO of Apoi investments Nigeria Limited as one of the special guests of honour, as well as Kayode Komolafe.
Upwardly mobile dude Biliamin Olabanji aka Billy Que is planning big for his 40th birthday.
Billy Que, who is popularly known in the entertainment circuit as a show promoter, is leaving no stone unturned to celebrate his 40th birthday on November 18.
According to information at Social Circuit’s disposal, Billy Que has planned to stage two parties, one in the UK and another in Nigeria.
The guest list is expected to be studded with A-list celebrities from all over the world as it is scheduled to be a huge bash with all trappings of pomp and glamour.
Aside from hosting friends and associates, Billy Que also revealed the plan to visit the less privileged where he will be donating materials to support them.
With over a decade of experience in the music promotions business, the astute promoter has helped in nurturing and promoting many young talents and he has worked with many Nigerian A-list music stars and packaged many foreign tours for the likes of King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, Davido, Small Doctor, Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, Q-dot, Sule Alao Malaika, Saheed Osupa, Portable, 9ice, Klever Jay, Vector, Slimcase, Lyta among many others.
Billy Que Entertainment has earned a reputation as the go-to artiste promotions and event management company, thanks to his meticulous planning, integrity and effective event management.
Dr. Michael Adeniyi Agbolade Ishola Adenuga (GCON) is a man of many firsts.
From business to philanthropy, generosity and more, Adenuga has blazed several trails.
Hence, it was no news when the man, who is widely referred to as the Spirit of Africa, decided to halt the Nigerian social circuit to give his beloved daughter, Sade’s hand out in marriage to dandy looking Adebola Ogunsanya.
It’s not in doubt that Adenuga remains tall as one of the Nigerian billionaires, who has consistently and covertly impacted on the entertainment scene with several practitioners from music to film, and comedy, enjoying from his largesse.
However, as generous as Adenuga is, the Bull behind a thriving conglomerate is not known for dancing – especially publicly – when his praises are being sung by musicians. The septuagenarian would rather keep his big frame on his seat and move slowly from side to side in show of appreciation of the melodies and beats.
It is on record that no artiste has sung his praises – publicly – so much that he would rise to dance. Some close aides were quick to say the bulky-framed doting father and billionaire only does that in the confines of his home, especially when giving praises to his creator and almighty God.
But in what looks like another first, Juju king, King Sunny Ade took the opportunity of Sade’s wedding to heap praises and shower encomiums, in seeming industrial dose, on Adenuga, who decided to break his own protocol.
Did he dance? No! Adenuga, in what seemed a first in the public, had his joy heightened while listening to the eulogies from KSA mixed with melodious tunes from guitar strings and juju percussions and with a big smile on his face, the billionaire took out bundles of naira notes to appreciate the king of world beats.
A happy KSA couldn’t also hide his joy as he moved closer to where the father of the bride was seated, knelt to be blessed by the man, who has been described as a generous soul, who doles out financial support and assistance in unrivalled measure yet covertly. This is definitely a first from the Bull.
Ibadan businessman and publisher of The Street Journal Newspaper, Mogaji Wole Arisekola is a proud father as he is getting set to host the high and mighty to the wedding of his first daughter, Segilola Arisekola.
The date has been revealed as December 19 while the grand ballroom of Oriental Hotel in Lagos has been set as venue.
The National Chairman of the Association of Media Practitioners Online in Nigeria (AMPON), is leaving no stone unturned in the holy solemnization of Segilola and Samuel Aisabokhae, an Ireland-based entrepreneur of Benin, Edo State origin.
The wedding ceremony, those close to Arisekola has said, would avail the man of many parts the opportunity to host guests at the introduction and traditional wedding before the couple return Dublin, Ireland, for their white wedding.
Those who should know from Lagos to Ibadan and back to Abuja revealed that Arisekola is sparing no cost to make the day a memorable one for his daughter who has always made him a proud father.
Already, Arisekola and his beautiful wife have sought the services of Funke Buknor as the planner while the services of Laolu Gbenjo, Beejay Sax and Dj Kulet have been engaged to thrill guests.
He has also extended the invitation to several governors, senators, ministers and top bank executives who have shown their interest in gracing the occasion and celebrating with the Ibadan-born oil and gas executive.
