If you’ve never stepped into the vibrant world of Nigerian theatre, The Jewel is your invitation and trust me, it’s not one you’ll want to miss. This isn’t ust another play; it’s a once-in-a-generation event, inspired by blending the masterful storytelling of Wole Soyinka and Ola Rotimi’s timeless pieces ( The Lion & the jewel, our husbands have gone mad again) with an audaciously modern twist that speaks to our times. Set in a dystopian future where society’s values are pushed to the edge, The Jewel dives deep into what it means to hold on to love, hope, and humanity in a world obsessed with technology. It’s a story as relevant to us today as it will be to generations tomorrow.
The production alone is set to make you step into a world where the familiar and the futuristic collide with poetic precision. This play isn’t just another holiday highlight at Eko Hotel’s Tropical Christmas Wonderland; it’s a journey into a reimagined Nigeria – a world that feels close yet strangely transformed. The sharp wit of Wole Soyinka’s Lion and the Jewel and the satirical genius of Ola Rotimi’s Our Husband Has Gone Mad Again births The Jewel a futuristic musical that dares to ask: What if the values we hold dear are just illusions in a world that thrives onchaos?
The Jewel takes a brave look at how we balance human connection in an increasingly digital society. The narrative is rich and layered, drawing on Nigerian cultural elements while reaching for universal themes – love that endures, sacrifice that defines us, and hope that binds us, even as the world around us shifts. It’s these timeless ideas that will resonate with everyone, theatre enthusiast or not, making it impossible to walk out unchanged.
They play is co-directed by Dr Iyadunni Gbadebo a theatre graduate whose boundless creativity and visionary acting, directing, and producing redefined the Nigerian theatre scene and stage. With an innate ability to breathe life into stories, Dr Gbadebo has produced and directed a few captivating performances, each one, a testament to her unparalleled talent and dedication. Her innovative approach in choosing to get inspiration from renowned African playwrights, and her passion for using theatre as a tool to share the overlooked brilliance of African talent, is pushing all boundries. She blends traditional theatrical elements with modern sensibilities, inviting audiences to experience narratives that resonate on both emotional and intellectual levels.
‘The Jewel’ explores the intricacies of human connection in an increasingly fragmented world, and Dr Gbadebo’s deft hand at adding her wealth of knowledge in this field, Co-directing this piece, promises a rich, immersive experience that transcends the ordinary. Critics and theatre enthusiasts alike are abuzz with anticipation, recognizing that Her work is never just a performance but a transformative journey that everyone must witness. As she continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, her vision will inspire a new generation of theatre makers and audiences alike.
At the centre of this marvel is the electrifying Daniel Ezekiel. Known for award-winning performances that hit hard and stay with you, Ezekiel’s presence in The Jewel elevates the entire production. With the African Movie Academy Award under his belt and a reputation for vanishing into his roles, Ezekiel doesn’t just perform; he embodies characters in a way that captivates. Alongside him is a stellar thespian cast under the direction of Ice Nweke, a visionary who blends drama and digital finesse like no other. Nweke’s direction ensures that every moment on stage is not only impactful but also technically spectacular, merging theatrical artistry with cutting-edge effects that push Lagos theatre into thrilling new territories.
And it all unfolds during Eko Hotels Tropical Christmas Wonderland in December, a setting that already radiates energy and holiday spirit. The stage at Eko Hotel is transformed, immersing the audience in a sensory feast where sight, sound, and story converge into an experience that’s unforgettable. This is where theatre steps out of tradition and into innovation, creating a connection with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
When the biggest brands, on the African continent come together to obliver a vision, of that sets the ball rolling for the most highly anticipated experiences. This December, expect nothing less than SPECTACULARLY EPIC THRILL!
With tickets on sale at the information desk in the hotel or at www.ekohoteltropicalchristmas.ng, this is a moment for Lagos to come together to witness a story that speaks to us all. This isn’t just about watching a play; it’s about experiencing a fresh wave in Nigerian theatre. Don’t just hear about The Jewel from friends,- be in that audience, live in that moment, and feel the thrill yourself.
