Spectacular Noble Warrior Stage Play to Celebrate Wole Soyinka at 91.

Nigerian-American playwright and producer Cash Onadele, also known as Aiye-Ko-Ooto, is set to honour Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka with a special stage production titled The Noble Warrior (Eni Ogun) as the literary icon turns 91 on July 13, 2025. The event promises to be a highlight of Nigeria’s cultural calendar, celebrating Soyinka’s remarkable contributions to literature, theatre, and national life.

The play will be staged at the historic Glover Memorial Hall in Lagos, running from July 11 to 13, with two shows each day—a 3 pm matinee and a 6 pm champagne show. The Noble Warrior is described as a suspense-filled Black musical theatre that blends music, dance, and drama to reflect on Soyinka’s life, struggles, and achievements. The organisers say this year’s edition will feature innovative set designs and an immersive audience experience, raising the bar for Nigerian stage productions.

Reflecting on last year’s edition, the organisers noted the need for more audience engagement. This year, they are introducing souvenir books and branded merchandise for attendees. “We are going for glamour and depth,” they explained, promising a richer and more interactive experience for theatre lovers.

“This is more than a tribute,” said one of the organisers. “It is a celebration of legacy and a push toward the future of Nigerian theatre.”

Artistic director Ade Fila returns with an updated vision, ensuring that the production not only honours Soyinka but also connects with a new generation of theatre-goers. The team has also announced plans to stage student-focused versions of The Noble Warrior at the University of Lagos and the University of Ibadan, with subsidised tickets to encourage student participation and appreciation for Nigerian literature and drama.

The long-term goal, according to the organisers, is to make the production an annual event, with plans to include other works like Moriti Ometa and Ajogi (The Foreigner) in future editions, turning it into a broader literary festival.

Although Professor Soyinka’s attendance at the event has not been confirmed, the organisers remain hopeful that he will be able to join the celebration. Regardless, the event is set to draw theatre enthusiasts, students, and admirers of Soyinka’s work from across Nigeria and beyond.

The Noble Warrior stands as a testament to Wole Soyinka’s enduring influence on Nigerian culture and the global literary scene. Through music, dance, and drama, the production seeks to inspire, entertain, and remind audiences of the power of storytelling and the importance of honouring those who have shaped the nation’s cultural identity.

Conclusion:
As Wole Soyinka marks his 91st birthday, The Noble Warrior promises not just a tribute, but a vibrant celebration of his legacy and a bold step forward for Nigerian theatre. With new creative elements and a focus on engaging the next generation, this production is set to become a cherished tradition in honour of one of Africa’s greatest literary minds.

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