TAFTA’s TALP-X paves the way for young creatives

THE Terra Academy for the Arts (TAFTA) once again showcased its transformative impact on young talents nationwide on Sunday, July 14.

Since its inception in 2022, TAFTA has empowered over 24,440 young Nigerians across Lagos, Kano, and Ogun states with invaluable theatre arts and entrepreneurship skills. Notably, TAFTA has successfully integrated 9,165 youths into the workforce, with 5,156 young women securing employment or gigs in their respective fields.

Under its flagship initiative, the TAFTA Action Learning Project (TALP-X), TAFTA, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and Utica Capital, hosted an unforgettable evening at Terra Arena in Victoria Island, Lagos. Featuring five spectacular stage plays, the event entertained and highlighted the depth of talent nurtured through TAFTA’s programs, creating an experience that truly made the attendees say, ‘We Outside.’

The evening started with a soul-stirring performance by Wisdom Joe, whose renditions of classics such as ‘Coat of Many Colors’ and ‘Mr. Jailer’ set the stage alight. This was followed by powerful spoken word pieces by Adeoye Adelakun, who gave a poignant eulogy of Yorubaland, creating an electric atmosphere from the start.

The stage came alive with the captivating storytelling of the first play, ‘Nocturnal.’ The audience was transported into a riveting tale of a dysfunctional couple who, despite their differences, successfully resisted outside intervention and pressures. Following the thunderous applause, the academy students presented a thought-provoking contemporary drama, “Hues,” exploring women’s empowerment through collaboration.

As the night progressed, the energy in the room only intensified. The audience laughed during “Kolo,” a thought-provoking social commentary on sanity. This hilarious play offers a satirical look at two madmen who, realizing that madness is more affordable, ultimately choose to embrace insanity. The heartfelt performance “Maami,” a touching comedic portrayal of familial bonds during a wedding fundraiser, added layers of depth and emotion.

The night culminated in “Hello,” a gripping dialogue between God and Lucifer inspired by Adele’s classic song, leaving the audience mesmerized and inspired.

The night’s highlight was the overwhelming support and enthusiasm of the attendees, who filled the venue with cheers and applause throughout the performances. Their energy elevated the atmosphere to new heights.

Akintayo Abodunrin