Kúrunmí Takes Centre Stage At Alliance Francaise

Stage Craft Studio presents a riveting theatrical experience with ‘Kúrunmí’, the Yoruba War General, a historical play by the legendary playwright, Ola Rotimi.

Set to grace the stages of Alliance Francaise and Terra Kulture on June 13-14 and July 20-21, 2024, this production promises an immersive jour­ney into Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

Michelle Adebola, the Pro­duction Manager, emphasises the play’s relevance to contem­porary Nigerian politics, noting Nigerians yearning for societal change.

With a blend of film and stage elements, Stage Craft Stu­dio aims to revive cultural nar­ratives and ignite discussions about heritage and history, particularly targeting younger audiences through morning shows tailored for students.

“If we are trying to tell our story we need to start from the younger ones. We intend to have a conversation with them after they enjoyed the play. So they see the need not to abandon their heritage or history,” Ade­bola said.

Produced by Gboyega Ako­sile and directed by Muyideen Oladapo (Lala), ‘Kúrunmí’ fea­tures a stellar cast led by sea­soned actors Tunji Sotimirin and Segun Adefila, who brings his choreography expertise to breathe life into the movements on stage.

The production boasts a diverse ensemble of over a hundred talents comprising seasoned performers and emerging creatives.

At its core, ‘Kúrunmí’ delves into the story of a relentless war general who staunchly defends tradition amidst societal evolu­tion.

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The play navigates themes of political and military leader­ship, social change, responsible governance, and the struggle to preserve cultural identity.

The Director, Muyideen Ol­adapo, injects a modern twist to the production, integrating technology to enhance the au­dience’s experience.

Through the fusion of live performances and cinematic war scenes, filmed on location in Oyo Kingdom, viewers will be transported into the heart of the conflict, witnessing the vis­ceral reality of battle alongside the actors on stage.

“When I was called to direct the play, I thought of what to add to make it different from what others have been staging. In theatre now there is a fusion of technology, we have to make use of technology: screen and stage. I know a lot about screen and stage.

“I want people to be watch­ing the play live on stage and be seeing some parts on the screen. We picked all the war scenes in the play, we went to Oyo Kingdom to shoot all the scenes, when they are prepar­ing for war on the stage, war will be happening on the screen as if you are in the cinema hall. The audience will see that the war happened and people were killed, children were killed,” he explained.

Tunji Sotimirin, who would be playing the role of Bashorun underscores the play’s authen­ticity and depth, attributing his involvement to the direc­tor’s profound understanding of Yoruba culture and tradi­tions.

Anticipating a blend of entertainment, music, dance, and poignant storytelling, So­timirin assures audiences of a captivating rendition true to Ola Rotimi’s original vision.