Contemporary Nigerian arts, culture and music will be celebrated in London’s West End next month as Wakaa! – the hugely successful homegrown musical becomes the first of its kind to debut at the Shaw Theatre.
This big, bold new musical by Terra Kulture is a two-hour stage musical extravaganza of drama, comedy, live music and dance about the trials, successes and experiences of graduates with varied backgrounds. A wager between them after graduation leads to twists and turns when the realities of life and the folly of their choices hit them. Will they reunite and come full circle?
This strong satire of Nigeria’s politics and society explores the scheming, intrigues, betrayals and games people play in life to get ahead. The socio cultural and modern entertainment production rejoices in the diverse yet homogeneous people and culture of Nigeria, while examining current pressing issues of mass youth unemployment, lack of opportunities for social mobility, immigration and migration.
Bolanle Austin Peters, the force behind Terra Kulture, one of Nigeria’s most successful and influential arts, cultural and production companies, says “Due to popular demand, we are taking the show to the largely discerning and open London population. Wakaa! The Musical is a proudly Nigerian cultural export that has the potential to boost cultural diplomacy and promote our cultural heritage abroad. It will provide the highly talented and creative youths involved in the production also with opportunities to experience the UK creative space and technology driving the UK creative industry.”
Wakaa! The Musical plays at The Shaw Theatre in London from July 21 – July 25