The National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) says it will hold its 2024 national delegates convention in Lagos, from Feb. 18 to Feb. 22.
Its National President, Mr Israel Eboh, who disclosed this during a press conference in Lagos, on Wednesday, said that the essence of the convention was to explore theatre as a force for national transformation.
Eboh said that the convention would feature insightful workshops to educate practitioners on cutting-edge skills in scriptwriting, directing, acting, stage design, and digital theatre innovations.
According to him, the convention will also provide a robust platform to explore, debate, and expand the role of the performing arts in national development.
“In the course of the convention, delegates will be immersed in an exciting lineup of events designed to educate, entertain, and inspire. This is the first time we will be having activities happening in four different venues concurrently.
“The convention is called “Eko 2024” because it is also an opportunity for our members to explore tour facilities in Lagos, we want to showcase Lagos as the heartbeat of entertainment.
“The theme for the convention is “Theatre Politics and National Development. ”
“This theme could not be more relevant at this time in our nation’s history, as we navigate the complexities of governance and democracy.
“It is imperative to recognise the critical role of theatre and the arts in shaping national consciousness, driving civic engagement, and influencing policy.
“Theatre is more than entertainment-it is a mirror of the society, a voice for the voiceless, and a catalyst for transformation,” he said.
Eboh introduced veterans like Joke Silva, Chief Chika Okpala, Hajiya Lantana Ahmed, Dr Sam Dede, Mrs Sarah Boulos, and Steve Onu as Eko 2024 convention ambassadors.
He appreciated Leadway Assurance, Pocari Sweat, National Council for Arts and Culture, National Film and Video Censors Board, National Theatre, and Agewell company for partnering with NANTAP to host the convention.
“I extend an open invitation to all theatre practitioners, art enthusiasts, corporate bodies, and government agencies to support and actively participate in this landmark event,” she said.
Also, Mr Greg Odutayo, Chairman, Local Organising Committee for the convention, promised to make the convention an epoch-making one.
“It’s going to be a five-day season of learning, interaction, and exhibition of talents.
“We are going to have activities spread across five venues, the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Glover Memorial hall, Freedom Park, and the National Theatre.
“We’ll provide logistics for attendees across the state,” he said.
Earlier, Mrs Tola Akerele, General Manager of the National Arts Theatre, who was represented by Chief Henry Ndubuisi, Deputy Director, Marketing at National Theatre assured NANTAP of continued partnership.
Akerele also assured Nigerians that the National Theatre would be open for use soon as he promised to continue to work with NANTAP to generate lofty ideas that would reposition the creative industry.
“We recognise the enormous role NANTAP play in correcting societal ills, and that is the reason we will continue to partner with you to achieve our common goals,” she said.
Also speaking, Sarah Boulos, National President of the Society of the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN), urged NANTAP to ensure a communique is put together after the convention.
Boulos also advised NANTAP to encourage their women to embrace politics as Theatre could be seen as a strong force to correct how politics and governance should be run.
Mr Niyi Abiola, Brand Manager, Leadway Assurance, acknowledged the long-standing relationship the company had built with NANTAP over the years.
“We see the work you do in shaping the society positively, we are in peculiar times, and the onus is on this association to correct society ills. We are glad to partner with you, and we wish you a beautiful conference ahead.