The play “revisits one of African literature’s most memorable satirical characters, Brother Jero, placing him squarely within the realities of present-day Nigeria. The production explores themes of power, deception, faith, ambition and human vulnerability through compelling storytelling, rich dialogue and contemporary theatrical expression.
The cast in final leg of rehearsals
SATURDAY, July 25, theatre enthusiasts, literary scholars and lovers of the arts in general will gather at the JRandle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Onikan, Lagos, to savour the play, Return of Jero, a reinterpretation of Wole Soyinka’s classic, The Trial of Brother Jero, as devised by Babatunde Odubanwo and directed by ????
Coming barely two weeks after Soyinka’s 92nd birthday on July 13, the play, is conceived as a befitting tribute to the old man of letter, whose old classics seem to be gaining currency in contemporary theatre stage. The Swamp Dwellers which he wrote 68 years ago, is currently on stage of Utopia Theatre stage in Sheffield, United Kingdom.
According to a statement by the writer, who also doubles as producer of the play, Odubanwo, the staging of Return of Jero serves as “both a tribute to Nigeria’s foremost literary icon and an invitation for audiences to interrogate present-day social realities through the lens of satire.”
“More than a revival, the play offers audiences an opportunity to reflect on the enduring relevance of Soyinka’s social commentary, demonstrating how the issues he explored decades ago continue to resonate in contemporary society.”
He continued, “Return of Jero celebrates the genius of Professor Wole Soyinka while engaging a new generation in conversations about leadership, morality, manipulation and the resilience of society. It is theatre that entertains, provokes and inspires.”
The play “revisits one of African literature’s most memorable satirical characters, Brother Jero, placing him squarely within the realities of present-day Nigeria. The production explores themes of power, deception, faith, ambition and human vulnerability through compelling storytelling, rich dialogue and contemporary theatrical expression.
The production features a cast and creative team committed to delivering a compelling theatrical experience through strong performances, innovative stagecraft and engaging audience interaction.
The staging has attracted interest from members of the diplomatic community, the creative industry, academia, corporate organisations and theatre lovers, underscoring the continued relevance of stage productions in fostering dialogue and preserving Nigeria’s literary heritage.
Attendance is free, but registration is required. Members of the public can reserve their seats by registering at https://www.eventporte.com/return-of-jero.
The organisers have invited members of the media, corporate organisations, educational institutions and the general public to be part of an evening that celebrates Nigerian literature, honours artistic excellence and reaffirms the enduring power of theatre as a platform for reflection and social engagement.
Odubanwo’s repertoire as a writer usually explores history, identity, leadership to interrogate contemporary society. His notable productions include MAREN, a biodrama on the Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka; Idi Amin, a play that mirrored the Nigerian society; Beere Arolu, an epic theatrical retelling of the history of Epe; and Return of Jero, his latest work inspired by the timeless satire of Soyinka.
