Alien’s Blood rekindles era of theatre going culture

In this era of screen and digital distractions, the play “Alien‘s Blood’ written and directed by Ladepo Duro-Ladipo, boldly awakens our senses, reigniting the flame of theatre’s golden age.

This mesmerizing production invites audience to rekindle their love affairs with live performance, embracing the communal joy and emotional depth which only theatre can provide.

The scintillating performance took place on Saturday at 16th July 2022.

The play was a delight to watch at Fajuyi Hall, Oja Oba, Ado Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State where people from all walks of life gathered as audience to see the much advertised commercial theatre show.

Set in an ancient fictional town of Ejirin thriving on its rich palm oil trade.

The traditional institutions are preparing for the 21-year human sacrifice renewal to the gods. The chiefs, Kabiesi and priests discuss the significance of the ritual, and the need to find an “alien’ whose blood will ensure continued prosperity.

Meanwhile the audience meets Isobo an outsider who has lived in Ejirin for years, despite his hard labour, he is despised by many and seen as the perfect target for the ritual.

Isobo’s rough lifestyle is showcased . Played by Oriyomi Joseph, an upcoming star actor, he works in the town but is treated poorly by locals.

His relationship with Ooshawemi, and the daughter of the powerful Abore (High Priest) is revealed, creating a conflict between love and tradition despite being an outcast, Ooshawemi is drawn to lsobo’s vulnerability. Meanwhile, above secretly eyes isobo as the perfect sacrificial victim, knowing his status as an ‘Alien’ to the community at this stage.

The introduction of ‘Isobo’ personal struggles and his relationship with Oshawemi reveals tension between Abore’s duty to tradition and his daughter’s love for isobo.

Alade, Isobo’s younger brother a US based Naval Officer arrives Ejirin. His mission is to find his estranges brother whom he hasn’t seen in years, and take him back to the USA for rehabilitation. The town receives him with curiosity as he begins asking questions about his brother’s whereabouts. He encounters resistance from the town folks and receives cryptic warning about the ongoing tradition.

suddenly disappears from the town. Oosawemi is distraught, fearing the worst. Alade becomes suspicious and seeks answers. He begins an investigation, confronting town’s people who refuse to speak openly about what has happened.

The audience learns that lsobo has been captured as the intended sacrifice but the town leaders, including Kabiesi, the chiefs and Abore, remain silent bound by an oath of secrecy. Therefore lsobo’s sudden disappearance creates tension and confusion.

Alade’s quest for answers meets resistance from the town’s elites. He partners with the police, intensifying the investigation.

On the other hand, Oosawemi Internal love and loyalty to her family is revealed. Meanwhile, Abore’s inner conflict between his roles as the high priest, and his daughter’s love for lsobo is heightened.

In the final confrontation, Alade, the police and Ooshawemi confront the Kabiesi and the chiefs in a tense showdown, Alade accuses them of murdering his brother. The chiefs deny but Ooshawemi reveals crucial evidence of the town’s dark secrets. Abore seeing the inevitable collapse of tradition finally confesses and offers himself for arrest. Consequently, justice is served as Abore is sentenced to life imprisonment and this begins a new dawn for Ejirin as it abandons the blood rituals.

The artistic director uses a blend of veterans and upcoming actors and actresses in the industry. Budding stars such as Anita Auhangasi, Ooshawemi. Her emotional resonance vocal control and stage presence are remarkable. Alade, Isobo’s junior brother played by Ola Rotimi a sensational classic actor can be assessed as exceptional as ever. Super stars and veteran such as Yemi Solade, Kabiesi, Ayo Ewebiyi, Iyalode, Tunji Sotimirin who played the Police Officer are all outstanding.

I only wonder how the Producer/Director, Ladepo was able to manage many supporting actors and actresses, villagers, singers and drummers. In an interview after the performance Ladepo said, he was able to manage the street theatre not because he has big production budget or sponsorship but because many of the actors are not driven by money but passion for the comeback efforts of stage production Initiated by Back-To-Mbari Concept Ltd and the resilience of Ladepo.

The stage design, though somehow bogus but the stage was not big enough to express all the set artistry. It would have been excellent if the stage area was larger. The use of light effects was effective and commendable.