The three-day event is expected to attract over 20,000 attendees from around the globe, showcasing a rich array of local and international artistic expressions. The Lagos International Theatre Festival serves as a dynamic platform for artists, directors, writers, and theatre lovers from around the world.
The festival's diverse program will feature adult theatre, children's theatre, skits, and storytelling that explore both local and global themes, reflecting the vibrant spirit of Lagos. Events will be hosted at four prominent venues in Lagos State: Muson Centre, TerraKulture, National Theatre, and JK Randle Centre.
Attendees can look forward to performances from both emerging and established artists, local theatre groups, and international performers. Additionally, the festival will include workshops, masterclasses, panel discussions, and a marketplace, all designed to promote growth, creativity, and collaboration within the entertainment sector. Notable productions will include The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives and Satchmo at The Waldorf, among others.
The festival will also feature some of Nigeria’s most talented creative artists, including Joke Silva, Kehinde Bankole, Osas Ighodaro, and Broda Shaggi, ensuring that it is a must-attend event for anyone passionate about the performing arts.
FirstBank's role as a lead sponsor of the Lagos International Theatre Festival underscores its commitment to being a premier supporter of the creative and performing arts, thereby enhancing the cultural and entertainment landscape of the country.
In her remarks regarding the sponsorship, Folake Ani-Mumuney, Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, stated, "FirstBank’s involvement with the Lagos International Theatre Festival exemplifies our ongoing dedication to the arts and the creative value chain. Through our First@Arts initiative, we have actively promoted the development of creative talent and enriched Nigeria's cultural environment. We recognize that supporting events like the Lagos International Theatre Festival is crucial not only for the arts but also for empowering individuals, fostering innovation, and cultivating a sense of community that nurtures national pride."
Bolanle Austen-Peters, founder of BAP Productions, emphasized, "The creative industry is essential to the prosperity of any nation, and Nigeria is particularly fortunate to possess a wealth of imaginative creativity and talent. This is a divine blessing—an infinite resource. It is vital that we create platforms for our creatives to explore, share our narratives, and project our positive philosophies and values globally. This is the driving force behind the launch of the Lagos International Theatre Festival."
The sponsorship of the Lagos International Theatre Festival represents a significant advancement in the bank's First@Arts initiative. This initiative is designed to support the value chain of Nigerian arts and cultural development, contributing to the growth of the nation's creative economy. It seeks to engage and empower youth, customers, and stakeholders to tap into the myriad opportunities within the creative industry and to celebrate their achievements.
One of the standout initiatives under the First@Arts program is FirstBank’s DecemberIssaVybe. As the year draws to a close, the Lagos International Theatre Festival will launch FirstBank’s annual “DecemberIssaVybe” campaign, which is designed to enhance the arts and entertainment sector in Nigeria. Throughout December, the Bank provides a wide array of opportunities and platforms for an unforgettable homecoming experience, appealing to both Nigerians and international visitors.
Music enthusiasts and those seeking entertainment can anticipate exclusive access to live performances by their favorite artists, highly sought-after concerts, and engaging shows. DecemberIssaVybe has consistently delivered the most thrilling, enjoyable, and memorable experiences for the Bank's friends and families during the month of December.