In a groundbreaking move that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Nigerian cinema, the legendary Yoruba movie: “TI OLUWA NILE,” originally penned by veteran actor and producer, Alhaji Kareem Adepoju, popularly known as Baba Wande, is poised for a historic transformation into a stage play, titled: “ASIYANBI: TI OLUWA NI ILE.”
This momentous endeavour is made possible through the support of the international cultural body: Aroba Groove.
It signals a new chapter in the legacy of this beloved cinematic masterpiece.
The 30-year-old movie, having captivated audiences as one of Nollywood’s most-watched and top-selling films in history, has left an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers with its compelling narrative and powerful performances.
Now, with the upcoming stage production presented by Aroba Groove, the timeless story is set to be reimagined and brought to life in a fresh and dynamic theatrical experience.
Originally penned in 1987 by Baba Wande, TI OLUWA NILE was transformed into a cinematic gem in 1993 through collaboration between the esteemed writer and Mainframe Production, under the skilled direction of Tunde Kelani.
The film intricately weaves a tale of intrigue, betrayal and societal complexities, drawing viewers into a world where greed collides with tradition, and justice is sought through supernatural intervention.
The narrative follows the gripping saga of two individuals who conspire with a corrupt chief to illegally sell ancestral land to a petroleum company for personal gain.
However, their deceit is met with fierce resistance from the community and the intervention of the oracle, embodying the land’s sacred deities.
As the true ownership of the land is revealed and consequences unfold, the chief finds himself entangled in a web of challenges that test his fate and traditional standing, leading to a climactic showdown that will determine his ultimate destiny.
With its cinematic debut, TI OLUWA NILE garnered widespread acclaim and adoration, solidifying its status as a blockbuster and a cultural touchstone in Nollywood history.
Now as ASIYANBI: TI OLUWA NI ILE prepares to take centre stage, executive producer Oladotun Taylor emphasises the enduring relevance and resonance of the timeless story, underscoring its enduring impact on audiences across generations.
According to veteran actor Baba Wande: “This is an historic project.
“Though I am the owner of the story, I must confess to you that I am more than grateful to be part of this project.
“If I am not mistaken and with my experience, this is the first time in this country that I am witnessing a story that has been adapted to a film and re-adapted to a stage play.
“I have not seen or heard it before in this sphere.
“I give progenitors and producers of this project kudos for their ingenuity.
“I am happy to be part of it in my lifetime, and I am fully in support.”
The Director of the stage play, Ropo Ewenla, said he was awed with the project.
Ewenla said: “I was a bit shocked when I was first contacted about the project, though I understand creativity is limitless but this took me unaware sincerely, and since we have been on it, it has really been an exciting experience with the level of creativity, quality of team, cast and crew put together by the producers, I can assure Nigerians and the world that it’s Ti Oluwa Nile redefined.
“It’s an experience that I believe everyone must witness and being the inaugural director of such a project makes me proud.”
The stage play will be featuring a talented cast of Nollywood actors and promises to deliver a riveting and immersive experience that honours the legacy of ‘TI OLUWA NILE’ while pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.
Aroba Groove’s visionary approach to reimagining this classic tale in a new artistic form underscores their commitment to fostering creativity and cultural enrichment, setting the stage for an unforgettable theatrical journey that will captivate audiences far and wide.
