Thespian Family Theatre is set to reignite a powerful conversation on Nigeria's social fabric with the return of its acclaimed stage production, ÌTÀN – The Story. The play will be performed at the Shell Hall, Muson Centre in Onikan, Lagos, on December 25 and 26, 2025.
Using Drama to Bridge Generational Divides
Written and directed by veteran thespian Ayo Jaiyesimi, the production is a deliberate artistic intervention aimed at promoting social reorientation and strengthening community values. Jaiyesimi explains that the play delves deep into themes of reconciliation, family bonds, cultural identity, and societal duty.
She roots the narrative in Nigeria's contemporary struggle with cultural disconnect and the noticeable erosion of traditional value systems. "Young Nigerians are now struggling with identity, while the older generations have also dropped the ball in passing down values once transmitted through storytelling," Jaiyesimi stated, highlighting the core tension the play explores.
Theatre as a Tool for Etching Change
For Jaiyesimi, the stage remains an unparalleled medium for shaping public consciousness and driving meaningful change. "At a time we are trying to drive reorientation and change, theatre is the most effective way of etching beliefs and behaviour on the minds of people," she affirmed.
Her work specifically engages the strained relationship between older and younger generations, scrutinizing gaps in upbringing, societal support, and mutual understanding. The production aims to open a dialogue that could lead to greater shared comprehension and responsibility.
Overcoming Hurdles with Community Support
Bringing such a vision to life is not without significant challenges. Jaiyesimi cited funding, infrastructure gaps, and high operational costs as major hurdles for theatre practitioners in Nigeria. "Many venues are expensive, with producers often paying separately for lighting and generators. If you really want to do something great, funding can be a problem. You are going to rent a space now, you are talking about millions," she revealed.
Despite these obstacles, support from corporate and foundation partners made the December shows possible. Jaiyesimi expressed gratitude to First Bank, First Pension Custodians, Leadway Assurance, and the GO-Forte Foundation for their crucial backing.
The cast of ÌTÀN features notable actors like Victor Oyebode and Afeez Oyetoro (Saka), alongside emerging talents from Lagos State University. This mix aligns with the troupe's community-focused development goals.
With a career spanning two decades and nine plays to her credit, including collaborations with the National Theatre, Jaiyesimi's journey from a corporate background in accounting and HR to theatre was inspired by a desire to use drama for social good. She credits the late Professor Bayo Oduneye as a major influence on her artistic path.
Looking ahead, Thespian Family Theatre plans to deepen its community projects and return to more frequent stage performances, signalling a vibrant re-engagement with the Nigerian theatre scene.
