The Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, has identified stage performances as a unique tool for entertainment and raising awareness on the societal ills in the society.
This is contained in a statement by Mrs Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, Head, Communication Unit of the institution and issued to newsmen on Tuesday in Lagos.
According to the statement, stage performances also teach morals, especially to young people and children.
It stated that as a result, the university had organised and started what she described as the ‘UNILAG in Town’ project on Saturday, April 29.
The statement further said that the initiative opened with a stage drama titled “Esu and the Vagabond Minstrels” by students of the institution’s Creative Arts Department, at Terra Kulture, in Victoria Island.
“The ‘UNILAG in Town’ is an initiative of the vice chancellor, university of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, aimed at showcasing the creative talents and outputs of students and staff of the institution.
“Produced by the Chairman, UNILAG Culture and Ethics Committee, Dr Seyi Kehinde, and directed by Dr Felix Emoruwa, the stage play written by Femi Osofisan tells a tale of a test of kindness, compassion, greed, conspiracy, corruption and the triumph of good over evil.
“The performance, which was held in two sessions, was sponsored by Parallex Bank.
“It also featured a special appearance by comedian and alumnus of the UNILAG Creative Arts Department, Samuel Perry, popularly known as Broda Shaggi,” it said.
It said that the vice chancellor described the “UNILAG in Town” initiative as a project born out of the desire to bring activities from the academic community closer to people.
According to the statement, Ogunsola said that the stage performance of “Esu and the Vagabond Minstrels” which kick-started the “UNILAG in Town” movement, is aimed at reigniting and promoting the love for culture.
It added that it was also aimed at moral rebirth and upholding indigenous virtues, while telling native African stories.
The statement said Ogunsola also expressed deep concerns over the prevalent craving and preference for materialism at the expense of humanity, one which she said could only be addressed through moral re-orientation.
“This is part of the things which ‘UNILAG in Town will help to achieve in the long run.
“Esu and the Vagabond Minstrels was showcased earlier in January, at the university’s Main Auditorium, as part of activities to commemorate the ‘UNILAG @ 60’ convocation ceremonies,” it said. (NAN)