Classic Yoruba Film “Ti Oluwa Nile” To Be Transformed Into Stage 

Classic Yoruba Film “Ti Oluwa Nile” To Be Transformed Into Stage 

The iconic Yoruba movie “Ti Oluwa Nile,” written by veteran actor and producer Alhaji Kareem Adepoju, popularly known as Baba Wande, in 1987, is undergoing adaptation for the stage with the backing of the international cultural organization Aroba Groove…..CONTINUE READING

This pioneering endeavor marks what is arguably the first instance of a film-scripted narrative being reimagined for the stage in Nollywood’s history.

Originally directed in 1993 by the renowned filmmaker Tunde Kelani, “Ti Oluwa Nile” narrates the tale of two individuals who collude with a corrupt chief to unlawfully sell ancestral land to an oil company for personal gain. However, their deception faces staunch resistance from the community and the intervention of the oracle, representing the sacred deities of the land. As the true ownership of the land is unveiled and repercussions ensue, the chief becomes ensnared in a series of challenges that challenge his destiny and traditional status, culminating in a climactic confrontation that will determine his ultimate fate.

The stage adaptation, now titled “Asiyanbi: Ti Oluwa Ni Ile,” is executive produced by Oladotun Taylor and directed by Ropo Ewenla.

“When I was first approached about the project, I was somewhat taken aback. Though I recognize that creativity knows no bounds, this truly caught me off guard. However, since we embarked on this journey, it has been an immensely rewarding experience witnessing the level of creativity, the caliber of the team, and the cast and crew assembled by the producers. I can confidently assure Nigerians and the global audience that this is ‘Ti Oluwa Nile’ redefined. It’s an experience that I believe everyone should witness, and being the inaugural director of such a project fills me with pride,” remarked Ewenla.

Expressing his delight at the stage adaptation, Baba Wande remarked, “This project is historic. Despite being the creator of the story, I must confess that I am more than grateful to be part of it. To the best of my knowledge and experience, this is the first time in Nigeria that I am witnessing a story adapted from a film being re-adapted into a stage play. I have neither seen nor heard of such a feat before in this realm. I extend my heartfelt commendation to the pioneers and producers of this project for their remarkable ingenuity. I am delighted to be part of it in my lifetime, and I am wholeheartedly supportive.”