Musicals have always been a crowd puller. Definitely because it combines two kind of art forms: music and drama. Cinderella the musical, for instance, will continue to fill the theater with excited music lovers no matter how over-told that story may be. So also did Awo the Musical shook Lagos.
Awo the musical, however, is a story that has not been given the best exploration it deserves, until now. This musical follows the life and time of the indefatigable Chief Obafemi Awolowo. This tale is told in an interesting fashion that leaves the audience smiling and laughing. Although there are some people who think the main character is rather without flaws, we think the music and the superb acting by the singers covered this characterization problem.
This musical was produced by Duke of Shomolu production, Joseph Edgar while the story is written and directed by Makinde Adeniran with the music edited by S K Ore.
This production started on Sunday the 22nd of August 2021 and ran every Sunday evening till the final production on the 12th of September at the prestigious Glover Memorial Hall, Marina, Lagos. The musical is filled with not only great acting and soul-soothing music, but with entertaining and energetic dance performances perfectly woven into the plot. The main character, Awo, was played by a young singer with such green and lush voice, Shallom Mathew. Other characters include: Mojisola Kadiri as HID; Moshood Fattah as Akintola; Toyin Oshinaike as Shonibare; and the gracious Yinka Davis as Iya Agba.
The final production was graced by the vice president of the federation, Yemi Osibanjo and the governor of Lagos state Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Their distinguished presence lit the musical and gave the evening an executive ambience.
Awo the Musical was such a success. Congratulations to the cast and crew of over a hundred creatives! We hope to see you on tour around the country and beyond.
I am Music Estate’s Music Director
