MTN Foundation-sponsored ‘Saro, The Musical’ thrills London audience

The award-winning Nigerian musical play, ‘Saro, The Musical’ premiered on Friday night to a rapturous audience at the prestigious Shaw Theatre, West End, London.

Produced by Bolanle Austen-Peters Productions (BAP), and sponsored by the MTN Foundation, ‘Saro the Musical’ is a rich showcase of Nigerian arts and culture. Set in modern Lagos, the musical is a celebration of migrants to the economic hub from other parts of Nigeria, with a focus on four talented young men who face a series of challenges, as they chased fame and fortunes in the ‘city of dreams.’

Dressed in colourful costumes that showcased the best of Nigerian fashion, the cast and crew provided a thrilling spectacle; giving life to the musical with well-choreographed dance steps and songs, which incorporated a mesmerizing fusion of African and Western sounds such as Afro-beats, Highlife, Juju, Apala, hip-hop and jazz. The show closed to a standing ovation and delighted calls for an encore.

The Executive Producer and Director, Austen-Peters said: “Our experience clearly shows that Nigerian stories resonate. For a long time, our stories were told by others. Now, with productions like this, written and produced by us and executed by a 70 member cast and crew; we are taking ownership and telling our own stories in a way that only we can.”

Speaking on the project, Executive Secretary MTN Foundation, Nonny Ugboma, noted that Nigeria is witnessing a revival in the quality and popularity of theatre and we are honoured to be part of this renaissance.