The Ekiti State Government, through its Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, in partnership with the Duke of Somolu Foundation, will stage the first-ever International Theatre Festival in the state this August.
Festival Director, Professor Rasaki Ojo Bakare, told journalists in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday that the event represents a public-private collaboration designed to showcase local talent and the state’s cultural heritage on a global platform.
Activities are scheduled to begin on 20 August with the arrival of guests from across Nigeria and abroad, alongside participants representing all sixteen local government areas of Ekiti State. Contestants will compete in theatre productions, with winners receiving substantial prizes and awards.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji is expected to officially open the festival at the Civic Centre. Command performances will be staged by representatives of the local governments, from which judges will select four finalists to perform at Ikogosi Resort before the grand finale in Ado Ekiti on 25 August.
In addition to these competitive performances, three plays will be featured: Ladi Kwali, written by Professor Bakare and chronicling the life of the renowned Nigerian potter; Kasimawo, honouring the late MKO Abiola; and Sardauna, penned by Professor Ahmed Yerima.
Professor Bakare, a former commissioner, noted that the festival is poised to transform Ekiti into a tourism hotspot, with over 50,000 guests expected to attend. He predicted a significant boost to local commerce and hospitality, while also providing a launchpad for Ekiti’s creative talents to gain international exposure.
He encouraged residents to participate fully, both to extend the state’s tradition of warm hospitality and to enjoy the cultural celebrations across the five-day event.
Captains of industry, senior government officials, and prominent actors and actresses are among those expected to attend.
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