On Sunday, July 14th, 2024, Nigeria’s leading creative education academy, Terra Academy for the Arts (TAFTA) once again showcased its transformative impact on young talents across the country. Founded with a mission to educate and upskill young Nigerians in various creative industries, including animation, art business & entrepreneurship, scriptwriting, sound design, and stage lighting, TAFTA has become a beacon of empowerment.
Since its inception in 2022, TAFTA has empowered over 24,440 young Nigerians across Lagos, Kano, and Ogun states with invaluable theatre arts and entrepreneurship skills. Notably, TAFTA has successfully integrated 9,165 youths into the workforce, with 5,156 young women securing employment or gigs in their respective fields.
Under its flagship initiative, the TAFTA Action Learning Project (TALP-X), TAFTA, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and Utica Capital, hosted an unforgettable evening at Terra Arena in Victoria Island, Lagos. Featuring five spectacular stage plays, the event not only entertained but also highlighted the depth of talent nurtured through TAFTA’s programs, creating an experience that truly made the attendees say, ‘We Outside.'”
The evening kicked off with a soul-stirring performance by Wisdom Joe, whose renditions of classics such as “Coat of Many Colors” and “Mr. Jailer” set the stage alight. This was followed by powerful spoken word pieces by Adeoye Adelakun, who gave a poignant eulogy of Yorubaland, creating an electric atmosphere from the start.
The stage then came alive with the captivating storytelling of the first play, titled “Nocturnal.” The audience was transported into a riveting tale of a dysfunctional couple who, despite their differences, successfully resist outside intervention and pressures. Following the thunderous applause, the students of the academy presented a thought-provoking contemporary drama, “Hues,” exploring women’s empowerment through collaboration.
As the night progressed, the energy in the room only intensified. The audience roared with laughter during “Kolo,” a thought-provoking social commentary on sanity. This hilarious play offered a satirical look at two madmen who, realizing that madness is more affordable, ultimately choosing to embrace insanity. The heartfelt performance “Maami,” a touching comedic portrayal of familial bonds during a wedding fundraiser, added layers of depth and emotion. The night culminated in “Hello,” a gripping dialogue between God and Lucifer inspired by Adele’s classic song, leaving the audience mesmerized and inspired.
The highlight of the night was the overwhelming support and enthusiasm of the attendees, who filled the venue with cheers and applause throughout the performances. Their energy elevated the atmosphere to new heights.
If you missed this unforgettable event, do not worry. There is more to come!!! TALP (TAFTA Action Learning Project) X is a stage play event held every quarter. Follow @Tafta_academy on social media to stay in the loop about upcoming performances. This is your chance to be part of a transformative cultural experience that celebrates creativity and empowers the next generation of Nigerian artists and entrepreneurs.
Also, if you are a Nigerian youth with a passion for the arts, a new cohort is starting August 8th, 2024. Visit the TAFTA website to stay updated on the call for entry and other news. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn from the best and brightest in the industry and to develop your talents to their fullest potential.
