By Taiye Olayemi
A historical play telling the story of legendary Ondo monarch, Moore Oronsen, premiered in Lagos on Saturday.
The play vividly portrays Moore Oronsen’s life and times, showcasing the traditions, values, and resilience of the Ondo people.
Featuring a talented cast of actors, dancers, chanters, drummers, and singers, it also narrates the origins of the famous Igogo festival in Owo.
The performance opened with vibrant dance and chant sequences, honouring Moore Oronsen, whose diligence, modesty, wisdom, intelligence, and wealth were joyfully celebrated.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the premiere, playwright and producer Damipe Adekoya said the production aimed to revive African history on stage.
Describing herself as a historian, Adekoya said she focuses on African stories due to Nigerians’ limited knowledge of the continent’s history.
“Nigerians yearn to learn about American and other countries’ histories while neglecting our own.
“Stories of African women are rarely told. They are resilient and hardworking, capable of inspiring contemporary women.
“There is much to learn about our history. My next production, ‘Omo Sha Iya Ofa,’ will tell the story of Bashorun Ogunmola, a female warrior in Ibadan,” she said.
Discussing her role as Moore Oronsen, Adekoya admitted, “It was challenging, but my director’s encouragement helped, especially in perfecting the love scenes.”
She hoped audiences would learn that despite broken vows, unity and forgiveness remain essential.
“Oba Rerengejen broke his vow to Oronsen by revealing her secret, yet she forgave him. Our society needs more of such forgiveness,” she said.
Adekoya praised Owo community for preserving the Igogo festival since the reign of Oba Rerengejen, the ninth king, to current’s 32nd ruler, Oba Gbadegesin Ogunoye III.
She added that ‘Moore Oronsen’ highlights African women’s economic contributions and showcases traditional attire, hairstyles, and accessories, bridging the past with modern times.
“It is a unique opportunity for Africans to embrace and celebrate our heritage,” she said.
Director Ifeanyin Eziukwu said he ensured an authentic portrayal by conducting research in Ondo State.
Eziukwu also engaged a language consultant for expert interpretation of the local dialect for the cast.
He commended Adekoya’s efforts in promoting African history and heritage through theatre.
He said: “Directing the play was intense, but to God be the glory. I want viewers to value and cherish our history.
“Without knowing our past, how can we plan our future?”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that ‘Moore Oronsen’ is a legendary love story that inspired the Igogo festival in 15th-century Owo.
It tells the tale of King Rerengejen and Oronsen, the goddess of wealth, whose love brought prosperity to the kingdom.
However, jealousy among the king’s other wives led to Oronsen’s departure when they violated her sacred taboos.
Before leaving, she vowed to protect the king and his people if he honoured her annually with the Igogo festival.
The cast includes Oriyomi Joseph, Victoria Azubogu, Adewunmi Boluwatife, Joy Sunmbo, Caroline Nzelu, Seyilola Ogbonna, Ogbodu Ruth, Olawande Blessing, Oshun Eniola, and others.