In a breathtaking display of cultural storytelling, the Lagos stage recently witnessed the debut of “Becoming Ancestors,” a production that has quickly become the talk of the Nigerian creative economy. More than just a play, this performance is a masterclass in how personal grief can be transformed into a universal anthem of resilience and legacy.
The Narrative: A Journey Through Lineage
“Becoming Ancestors” is a profound theatrical exploration of the cyclical nature of human existence. Set against a vibrant cultural backdrop, the play opens with the devastating loss of a patriarch, Chief Shishe, and follows his daughter, Oki, as she navigates the “spirit world” of her memories and the weight of her inheritance.
The narrative masterfully weaves traditional African spirituality with contemporary family dynamics. Through poignant dialogue and rhythmic sequences, the play suggests that our lives are not merely our own, but a “revelation” intended to help others find their calling. From the somber pouring of libations to the joyous naming ceremonies of a new generation, the production illustrates how the living and the dead are inextricably linked. The recurring motif—that our stories are “written in the bones of time”—serves as a powerful reminder that every breath we take is a step toward our own eventual status as ancestors.
The Visionary Behind the Curtain: Okiemute Shishe
The soul of the production lies in its author and director, Okiemute Shishe. A rising force in modern Nigerian theater, Shishe’s work is deeply rooted in personal history and cultural preservation.
The genesis of Becoming Ancestors is deeply intimate; Shishe began crafting the script in 2020, following the passing of her father. During the emotional curtain call of the first staging, she revealed that the work was her way of processing loss while celebrating the enduring spirit of her family. Based in Lagos, Shishe is dedicated to telling stories that honor the past while inspiring future generations to “honor the calling of their names.”
The Review: A Magnetic Masterpiece
From the moment the lights dimmed, the audience was transported into a world where the veil between the living and the spirit realm is thin. The production’s strength lies in its balance. While it deals heavily with the “shaking of bones” that comes with death, it never descends into hopelessness. Instead, it offers a vibrant look at friendship, marriage, and the wisdom of elders. The performances were nothing short of magnetic. The chemistry between the leads brought a lived-in authenticity to the stage, particularly in scenes depicting the mundane yet beautiful moments of family life—French lessons, childhood crushes, and the banter of old friends. The direction utilized the stage as a living drum, echoing the heartbeat of generations.
“Grief, our elders say, shakes the bones but never breaks the spirit.”
The Stakeholder Verdict
For investors and stakeholders in the “Orange Economy,” Becoming Ancestors represents a vital milestone. Shishe has proved that local stories, when told with this level of technical precision and emotional depth, have immense export potential. The play doesn’t just entertain; it archives our traditions and questions our legacy.
In an era where digital content often feels fleeting, Becoming Ancestors reminds us of the power of the stage to hold a mirror to our souls. It is a haunting, beautiful, and ultimately triumphant piece of theater that demands a global audience.
Watch the First Staging here Becoming Ancestors https://youtu.be/YaCZvCFRhHA?
