The July edition of TALP X, a quarterly showcase by Terra Academy for the Arts (TAFTA), was held on Saturday, July 19, at Terra Kulture, Victoria Island, Lagos and it delivered a blend of theatre, music and social themes that left the audience deeply inspired.
Running from 2 pm to 5 pm, the sold-out event featured four original productions performed by TAFTA trainees, each telling bold, emotional and thought-provoking stories that tackled issues ranging from toxic relationships to patriarchy.
Among the crowd favourites was Gbas Gbos, a family drama that hilariously examined the chaos triggered by a domestic quarrel, sparking conversations around relationships, culture and accountability. This was followed by You Say!, a feel-good performance that combined live music and stand-up comedy, keeping the audience clapping and laughing with its witty take on everyday life.
On a more serious note, Endgame explored the haunting reality of toxic relationships and the psychological scars they leave behind. The emotional piece served as a raw reminder of self-worth and setting healthy boundaries.
Closing the event was Jigida, a socio-political drama that challenged patriarchal norms and celebrated female resistance. It told the powerful story of women rising up against a failed system in a gripping and triumphant performance that moved many to tears.
TAFTA brand ambassador and actress Bamike Olawunmi-Adenibuyan, popularly known as BamBam, who attended the event, praised the showcase, saying, “I learnt a lot. I was entertained, it was educative and I will do it again. Shout out to TAFTA and BAP.”
TAFTA’s Academy Lead, JO Umoibom, also highlighted the importance of TALP X in nurturing talent.
“At Terra Academy for the Arts (TAFTA), we believe that when we train our participants, we give them this opportunity to practice what they have learnt. From learnings and rehearsals to today, they are performing on the biggest theater stage in Nigeria,” he said.
TAFTA is a creative learning initiative founded by acclaimed theatre and film director Bolanle Austen-Peters. The institution offers free world-class training in various aspects of the creative arts, including scriptwriting, sound design, animation, lighting, art business and entrepreneurship. Its training is delivered through a mix of digital and in-person instruction.
TALP (TAFTA Action Learning Project) is the practical phase of TAFTA’s training, where graduates are grouped into teams to create and stage original plays, culminating in events like TALP X.
Produced in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, TALP X continues to serve as a launchpad for emerging Nigerian creatives, showcasing their growth and celebrating the future of African storytelling; bold, vibrant and uncompromising.
