The growing enthusiasm for live theatre was amplified as the Lagos International Theatre Festival (LITF) 2025 concluded a vibrant week of performances and cultural events that drew large audiences across the city.
This year’s edition showcased a renewed public embrace of stage productions, strengthening the festival’s role in Nigeria’s creative landscape and highlighting theatre’s continued relevance in contemporary entertainment.
With more than 20 live productions, alongside masterclasses, workshops and cultural exchanges, LITF 2025 delivered a diverse and contemporary programme that blended theatre with food, music, celebrity culture and global creative trends. The festival’s multi-venue approach, spanning La Scala, Shell Hall, Agip Hall, Oriki Garden and Itan Garden at MUSON Centre, offered audiences a wide range of narratives, styles and performances.
One of the defining moments of the festival was the Gala Night at the MUSON Centre, where the Lagos State Governor made a special appearance. His presence ignited conversation on the role of public institutions in supporting arts development.
The festival also attracted a lineup of celebrities, cultural figures and entertainment personalities who turned up to support theatre. Their attendance added visibility, broadened audience appeal and signalled a shifting cultural moment in which live performance is regaining prominence in Nigeria’s entertainment conversation.
From the opening event at Kaly Restaurant, themed “Theatre Meets Food,” to daily shows that drew enthusiastic crowds, the festival underscored the increasing desire among Nigerians for artistic experiences that inspire, challenge and connect communities.
Festival Founder, Bolanle Austen-Peters described the 2025 edition as a landmark moment for theatre in Lagos. “LITF 2025 exceeded expectations. The turnout was unbelievable, the performances were powerful, and the energy was unmatched. We reminded the world that theatre remains a strong force in African storytelling,” she said.
Festival Director, Vanessa Jev, added that this year’s programme reflected a collective energy. “The talent, the audiences, the collaboration, everything came together to create a festival that sets a new standard for theatre in Lagos,” she noted.
The productions showcased included My Boyfriend Calls Me Ma, Eve’s Rapture, 99 Percent Virgin, SEKI, Efunsetan Aniwura, My Children! My Africa!, Ankara Committee, Nyso and the Egg, High Octave, OLE, Echoes of Yesterday, Home, and Stories of Us, each offering a distinct artistic perspective.
Workshops and masterclasses provided additional opportunities for learning, mentorship and exchange, contributing to capacity-building within Nigeria’s creative sector.
The festival was a collaboration of creativity, new ideas and cultural expression
