National Theatre's Tola Akerele Promotes Circus Talent

Tola Akerele, the General Manager of the National Theatre, expressed that Nigeria has abundant but largely untapped talent that could help establish a presence in the global contemporary circus industry. During a press conference on Friday at the National Theatre in Surulere, Lagos, she announced the Lagos Contemporary Circus Festival scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.

Akerele explained that circus combines various disciplines, including theatre, dance, juggling, and acrobatics, and noted that Nigeria's rich cultural heritage provides a strong foundation for developing a homegrown circus industry. She pointed out that traditional performances in Nigeria, especially in the North, already incorporate elements of acrobatics and movement.

Akerele emphasized the importance of identifying existing talent, exposing performers to international techniques, and creating professional development opportunities. She aims to lay the groundwork for a structured circus sector in Nigeria, which could create jobs and provide alternative career paths for young Nigerians.