‘Return Of Jero’ Celebrates Soyinka’s Legacy Through Modern Theatre
Theatre Production Revisits Literary Masterpiece
A fresh interpretation of Professor Wole Soyinka’s classic satirical work will headline a major theatrical event in Lagos as Return of Jero, written by playwright Babatunde Odubanwo, prepares for its public performance on 25 July at the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Onikan.
Inspired by The Trials of Brother Jero, the production reintroduces the charismatic yet manipulative Brother Jero to contemporary audiences by placing the iconic character within today’s Nigerian social landscape.
Exploring Society Through Satire
The production blends humour with social criticism, using theatre to examine issues of leadership, religious influence, ambition, morality and the complexities of human behaviour.
According to Odubanwo, the play honours Soyinka’s enduring contribution to African literature while encouraging younger audiences to engage with timeless questions about governance, ethics and social responsibility.
He described the production as theatre that not only entertains but also provokes thoughtful reflection and meaningful public conversation.
Celebrating Nigeria’s Literary Heritage
The organisers said the performance brings together an experienced cast and creative team dedicated to presenting a high-quality theatrical production capable of appealing to seasoned theatre enthusiasts as well as first-time audiences.
The event has generated interest among literary scholars, diplomats, cultural organisations, students and members of the creative industry, reinforcing theatre’s continuing role in preserving Nigeria’s literary traditions and promoting cultural exchange.
Public Invited to Cultural Showcase
Admission to the performance is free upon prior registration, with organisers encouraging members of the public to participate in an evening dedicated to celebrating Nigerian storytelling, dramatic arts and literary excellence.
Beyond Return of Jero, Odubanwo has built a reputation for productions centred on history, identity and leadership, including Maren, which chronicles the life of Wole Soyinka, Idi Amin, a socio-political drama, and Beere Arolu, an epic stage retelling of the history of Epe.
The latest production further demonstrates how classic African literature continues to inspire contemporary playwrights and remains relevant in addressing modern societal realities through the enduring language of theatre.
Members of the public can reserve their seats by registering at https://www.eventporte.com/return-of-jero.
