GOV. SANWO-OLU AT MEDIA BRIEFING OF THE LAGOS INTERNATIONAL THEATRE FESTIVAL (LITF) AT LAGOS HOUSE, MARINA, ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5TH, 2024

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday hosted members of the Nigerian Theatre at the Lagos House, Marina, for the official announcement of the Lagos International Theatre Festival

The Lagos International Theatre Festival (LITF) has gained substantial support from the Lagos State Government, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu formally endorsing the event at a press conference. Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed pride in hosting an international cultural showcase of this scale, with plans for 25 theatrical productions to be staged across four prominent Lagos venues: Terra Kulture on Victoria Island, Glover Hall on Lagos Island, the MUSON Centre in Onikan, and the National Theatre in Iganmu.

The festival, conceived by Bolanle Austen-Peters—renowned founder of BAP Productions and Terra Kulture—aims to bridge gaps in Lagos’ cultural production and elevate theatre to a level comparable with music, film, and fashion. Austen-Peters noted that the LITF would create a platform for creatives to tell compelling stories and share Nigeria's positive values on the world stage. Her vision is to foster a sustainable and thriving community for thespians and to promote excellence within the creative industry.

Support for the festival is robust, with corporate sponsors like First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Dorman Long Engineering, Amstel Malta, and the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts contributing to the initiative. Additionally, an advisory board featuring notable figures such as Joke Silva, Femi Elufowoju Jr., Chioma Ude, and many others is committed to delivering a world-class experience.

Beyond theatrical performances, LITF 2024 will offer workshops, masterclasses, and panel discussions led by industry veterans. A marketplace for theatre-related merchandise will add another layer of engagement. With local and international artists participating, this festival promises to be a landmark cultural experience, creating employment, boosting tourism, and contributing significantly to the creative economy in Lagos.

For a full schedule and ticketing details, interested attendees are encouraged to follow official LITF announcements.