FirstBank Poised To Grow Nigeria’s Cultural Heritage, Partners Firm On Folklore Movie Production
As part of its commitment to promote Nigeria’s cultural heritage, First Bank through its First@arts initiative has partnered with Creazioni Communications, a Broadcast and Production centre in Nigeria, to produce a modern adaptation of the classic Yoruba folklore, Oke Langbodo.
According to the bank, the production aims to promote arts, entertainment, cultural heritage and connect with the youth demographic.
Oke Langbodo will be dramatized on stage at the prestigious Wole Soyinka Theatre, University of Ibadan on June 18; 19; 27; 28 and 29 2024 by 5 pm respectively.
The Yoruba folklore is a legendary tale of courage and resilience, inspired by the timeless classic ‘Ogboju Ode ninu Igbo Irunmole’ by D.O. Fagunwa. It was reimagined in English as ‘Forest of a Thousand Demons’ by the legendary Wole Soyinka, and brought to life on stage by the visionary Wale Ogunyemi during Festac 77 as ‘Lagbodo’. It colludes ancient legends with modern technology of immense digital and technological experiential possibilities.
This innovative approach will resonate with audiences across the continent and beyond by re-igniting the historical values of the country’s culture and showcasing the country’s cultural identities through the featured characters.
The play, Langbodo is about a skilled hunter, who embarks into the forest of a thousand demons searching for game. Along the way, he encounters a series of trials, including encounters with mythical creatures like spirits, witches, and other supernatural beings. Despite the dangers, Langbodo remains courageous and resourceful, using his wit and skill to overcome each challenge.
The legend of Oke Langbodo continues to be celebrated in Nigerian culture as a timeless tale of bravery, perseverance, and the triumph of good over evil. Through the vibrant characters of Àkàrà Oògùn, Kàkó, Elégbèdè, Ẹ̀fò Ìyẹ́, Àràmọ̀ǹdà, Ìmọ́dòye, and Olóhùn Iyọ̀, the story comes alive under the directorship of Babatunde Ojobaro transporting us to a world of wonder and adventure.
Highlighting the Bank’s impact on the arts industry, the Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Folake Ani-Mumuney said, ‘’For over 130 years, FirstBank has been a steadfast supporter of the creative arts, consistently enabling the giants in our artists, by fostering creativity and national unity.
“This programme serves as an umbrella platform encompassing a diverse range of artistic expressions that includes stage theatre productions that bring captivating stories to life; fashion shows that celebrate style and creativity; vibrant carnivals that showcase our cultural heritage; and electrifying concerts that unite us through music. Oke Langbodo is another partnership opportunity for making a profound impact and reinforcing our commitment to empowering the creative sector.”
According to the CEO of Creazioni Communications, the producer of Oke Langbodo, Ropo Ewenla, “It is a delight producing this classic piece, Oke Langbodo, with the huge support of FirstBank at this auspicious moment in our national history.
” A time to re-emphasise the need to shun our individuality and embrace the uniqueness of our diversity as people seeking national rebirth. On this enchanting and engaging artistic journey, our message is of peace, unity, selflessness, devotion, perseverance and commitment to enabling ideals that can sustain our humanity. Oke Langbodo is a play that will connect with us as a nation in our constant aspiration for energy and purpose.”
First@arts is FirstBank’s platform for consolidating all its efforts in the arts, supporting the entire value chain of the creative arts, providing much-needed financing, showcasing, and facilitating the successes of the industry, as well as enabling customers to explore the wealth of opportunities the creative industry has to offer. One of the unique initiatives under the First@Arts umbrella is FirstBank’s DecemberIssaVybe.
Through DecemberIssaVybe FirstBank provides opportunities and platforms for memorable Homecoming Experiences from across the world including for those coming for marriage ceremonies, friends, and family reunions; festivals, funerals, the I Just Got Backs (IJGBs); giving and communal engagement. It has always brought friends and families of the Bank the best exciting, fun-filled, memorable experience in December.