‘Maren’: Nigerian Playwright to Honour Soyinka in Lagos Stage Play

As part of the celebrations of the Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka at 90, a play reading performance of the play, ‘Maren’, which is open to the public, will be held at the Seaside Cottage Theatre, Bariga, Lagos on August 3.

The play written by Babatunde Odubanwo and Femi Adebajo revolves around the resilience of the writer, activist and public intellectual over the years.

Odubanwo noted that the title of the play is the same as the name given to Soyinka by his grandfather.

Speaking with journalists, Odubanwo said that the play was inspired by “the long-standing and admirable stance of one of the living legends of Africa, Professor Wole Soyinka,on humanism and democracy.”

“It became evident to tell the story of how this giant rode on the back of fate, persistency and courage to the colossus,” the playwright added.

Odubanwo stated that the staging of the play was made possible by the support of the various art communes in Bariga.

Speaking further, Odubanwo said the work was based on several years of research on the life and times of Soyinka.

“Maren, the play, delves into the extraordinary life of Wole Soyinka, immersing audiences in the tumultuous journey of a literary giant and relentless activist. From his humble beginnings to groundbreaking achievements, the narrative intricately weaves together the threads of Soyinka’s personal struggles, professional challenges, and unwavering commitment to justice.”

He added that the play, “set against the backdrop of military dictatorship, political turmoil, and cultural evolution, unveils pivotal moments that shaped Soyinka’s identity as a dramatist, writer, and fearless advocate for change.”