Don Jazzy, D’banj Celebrate Immersive Launch of “Don’t Tell These Stories”

Toheeb Dele-Balogun’s launch of Don’t Tell These Stories has set a new standard for immersive storytelling in Lagos. After a decade in development, the multi-modal work premiered at The Temple Company, captivating an audience of influential figures in music, film, and art. Esteemed attendees, including Don Jazzy, D’banj, Bisola Aiyeola, and Idris Olorunnimbe, witnessed a book launch transformed into an exhibition, with art installations and live performances that broke traditional literary norms.

Dele-Balogun, reflecting on the launch, shared his inspiration from Toni Morrison’s quote on writing books that haven’t been written yet. Don’t Tell These Stories, he explained, transcends reading alone—it’s an experience designed to engage and challenge.

READ MORE: All set for October 27 launch of Toheeb Dele-Balogun’s ‘Don’t Tell These Stories’

Through this ambitious project, Dele-Balogun merges literature, art, and performance, capturing themes of untold stories and cultural introspection. “This project has become something I’m incredibly proud of,” he said. “From the visuals to the structure of the stories, it’s been crafted to leave a lasting impact.”

Notably, D’banj was taken with a particular art piece and expressed a desire to own it, while Don Jazzy resonated with the “Sugarcane” installation, themed around the Nigerian diaspora experience. These interactions reflected Dele-Balogun’s vision for an event that allows every guest a personal connection with the art.

 

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The installations included moving actors with duct tape over their mouths, a powerful image symbolising unheard voices, and visual pieces that resonated with the audience, prompting them to consider social issues.

READ MORE: Reviving Literature for the Distracted Generation: Toheeb Dele-Balogun’s Vision

Dele-Balogun’s creative pivot from advertising to literature and art reflects a growing commitment to challenging traditional storytelling. “This project was meant to stimulate quality conversations, especially for what I call the ‘distracted generation,’” he said, explaining his hope to inspire reflection through a blend of literary and visual art.

As the project’s profound impact resonates with audiences and prominent figures, Don’t Tell These Stories signals a promising future for innovative storytelling in Nigeria’s artistic landscape.