‘The Governor Concert’ will celebrate culture, music, talent —  Samson Ebe

Dr Samson Ebe is a lecturer in the Department of Perfoming Arts, Lead City University. In this interview with Yetunde Ajanaku, he speaks about his passion for creativity in music, culture and plans for the upcoming ‘Governor Concert’.

What inspired the idea of Governor Concert?

For a long time, I carried the quiet dream of creating a musical production that truly celebrates African cultural values and our rich musical language. I had organised and performed in many choral concerts in the past, but I always imagined something deeper. I wanted a concert that felt warm and welcoming — not too formal — a space where people from different backgrounds could simply sit together and enjoy an evening of music, dance, and storytelling. Another part of the vision was to bridge the gap between young musicians and established professionals. I dreamed of a choral concert where upcoming artistes could stand on the same stage with seasoned performers and learn from the experience.

My work in Lead City University gave life to that dream. Over the years, our students in the Performing Arts, Music and Film Studies Department have stood side by side with professional soloists and instrumentalists. I have watched them grow in courage, confidence, and artistry.

That desire to create a cultural space that entertains, educates, and connects people is what gave birth to The Governor Concert. What started as an idea has grown into a purposeful annual platform, and here we are today, presenting the third edition.

How long have you been directing or coordinating musical productions like this, and what keeps you committed to it year after year?

I have been directing and coordinating musical and theatrical productions for about eleven years. Through these years, what keeps me committed is the simple but powerful truth that art can change people. Every new production gives me the chance to guide young talents, shape meaningful stories, and create moments that stay with audiences long after the final bow.

I am especially moved by the growth I see both in my students and other people I work with. Watching them attempt something new, step beyond their comfort zone, and succeed in ways that surprise even them gives me a deep sense of fulfillment. Their joy, their courage, and the spiritual uplift that comes from the entire process are what keep me returning to the stage year after year.

For someone who has never attended The Governor Concert, what makes this edition different from previous ones?

For someone who has never attended The Governor Concert, this edition stands out because we have grown in every sense. We now understand the craft better, and that growth reflects in the storytelling, the music, the dancing, and even the acting. Every aspect of the production has been refined. This year is an upgraded version of the first two editions. It is not just a show — it is an experience that blesses, entertains, and invites reflection. It is the kind of evening that stays with you long after you leave the hall.

What should the audience expect this year in terms of music, dance, storytelling, and overall production quality?

They should expect excellence at every level. The music is more intentional, the dance pieces are culturally grounded, and the storytelling flows with greater clarity and emotional depth. We have worked hard to raise the standard. The audience should expect to be entertained, inspired, and spiritually uplifted.

How do you balance creativity with discipline during rehearsals, especially with students?

Working with students is always dynamic, and knowing how to guide that energy is essential for any director. I believe creativity thrives when there is structure. We encourage the students to explore ideas and express themselves, but we pair that freedom with discipline and focus. Our rehearsals follow a clear timetable, and everyone understands what is expected of them.

We treat the process as both a learning space and a professional environment. This balance allows the students to grow artistically while also developing a strong work ethic that will serve them long after the concert is over.

Every production has its challenges. What has been the biggest challenge in preparing for this year’s concert, and how have you handled it?

The biggest challenge this year has been managing the ambitious scale of our vision within limited resources. The scenes are bigger, the cast is larger, and the creative demands are deeper than anything we have attempted before.

But through teamwork, prayer, and intentional planning, we have pushed forward. The passion of the students and the unwavering support from the University have been the pillars that keep us moving with confidence.

Can you walk us through the creative process, from idea development to selecting performers and putting the entire show together?

The creative process always begins with inspiration, and for me that comes from the Holy Spirit. Once the core idea is clear, we start building everything around it.

We select the songs, the scenes, and the cultural elements that best communicate the message we want to share. We already have a committed pool of students who are passionate about the concert, and we also bring in professional performers — so it becomes a beautiful collaboration between the town and the gown.

After that, rehearsals begin. This is where we shape the music, block the drama, choreograph the dances, and keep refining every detail until the production comes alive as one coherent story.

How does this concert contribute to the growth of students, both artistically and professionally?

The Governor Concert contributes to the growth of students in ways that go far beyond the stage.

The performing arts industry is too vast for anyone to feel stranded, and this is something we constantly teach our students throughout the production process. Artistically, they gain real stage experience, improve their performance skills, and learn how to express themselves as confident artists. Professionally, they develop discipline, teamwork, stage management, problem-solving, and a strong sense of responsibility. Over the years, many students have discovered new strengths through this process, and some have even used their experience in the concert as a foundation for careers in performance, media, and other creative fields.

What impact do you hope The Governor Concert 3.0 will have on the university community and the general public?

I believe The Governor Concert shines a bright artistic and musical light on Lead City University. My hope is that this third edition strengthens unity within the university community, inspires creativity, and reminds everyone of the power of culture and faith.

I want people to leave the hall with joy in their hearts and a renewed sense of purpose. For the general public, I hope the concert continues to project the depth of talent and artistic excellence that our prestigious Lead City University is known for. It is my desire that the experience stays with them long after the final bow.