Get ready for an extraordinary cultural experience as Lagos gears up to host the highly anticipated Lagos International Theatre Festival (LITF) in November 2025! This week-long extravaganza promises to be a celebration of creativity, culture, and the power of human connection.
The Festival's Vision: A Global Stage for African Stories
LITF, recognized as Africa's premier international theatre event, aims to transform Lagos into a vibrant global platform for world-class performances and artistic exchange. From red-carpet events to immersive street theatre, the festival showcases the best of African creativity and contemporary storytelling.
A Week of Immersion and Collaboration
This year's edition features an exciting lineup of 20 productions across five stages, bringing together theatre companies from Nigeria, South Africa, and the United States. In addition to the performances, the festival offers masterclasses, networking opportunities, and cultural showcases, solidifying LITF's position as a leading platform for artistic collaboration in Africa.
A City Alive with Art
According to the organizers, audiences can expect an immersive experience like no other. "LITF will bring art to life across Lagos," they say, "with pop-up performances, live music, creative markets, and food stalls." It's an opportunity to celebrate the diverse cultural landscape of Africa and the unique spirit of Lagos.
Highlights of the Festival
The week-long program kicks off on Monday, November 10, with "Theatre Meets Food" at Kaly Restaurant, offering a unique blend of gourmet dining, live performances, and networking. On Wednesday, November 12, LITF teams up with the U.S. Embassy for a special night at CG Residence, featuring short performances and cocktails under the stars.
Thursday, November 13, is dedicated to "Conversations & Culture" at Terra Kulture, where a series of masterclasses will be held, featuring renowned theatre personalities such as Aubrey Sekhabi, Valerie Green, Professors Segun Ojewuyi and Jaemin Park, and the founder of LITF, Bolanle Austen-Peters. The evening will culminate in the Director's Night at the British Consulate, celebrating artistic innovation and cross-cultural collaboration.
A Founder's Vision: Nurturing African Talent
Bolanle Austen-Peters, the founder of LITF and Terra Kulture, shares her vision: "LITF is not just about celebrating the arts; it's about fostering creative exchange and cultural diplomacy. Each year, we bring together artists from across the globe to collaborate, perform, and share stories that transcend borders."
She continues, "The festival embodies the spirit of a new creative era in Africa, positioning Lagos as a global cultural hub. Through LITF and Terra Kulture, I am dedicated to nurturing African talent, amplifying our stories, and ensuring our voices are heard worldwide. This is where Nigeria's rich heritage meets global imagination, shaping the future of the arts in Africa and beyond."
The Grand Finale: A Celebration of Artistry
The festival reaches its climax on Friday, November 14, with the Opening Night Gala at the MUSON Centre. This red-carpet event promises an evening of elegance and artistry, featuring performances by BAP Productions, award presentations, and appearances by leading figures in the arts and culture industries. The festival concludes with two full days of theatre on Saturday and Sunday, November 15-16, offering family-friendly performances, creative workshops, and a vibrant marketplace with food, drinks, art, and crafts vendors.
A Global Hub for Artistic Innovation
The organizers emphasize that this year's edition reaffirms Lagos' status as Africa's cultural capital and a global epicenter for artistic innovation. Vanessa Jev, the Festival Director, adds, "LITF 2025 celebrates the power of storytelling to unite people. It's a space where creativity, culture, and community converge, bringing Lagos to the world."
"The festival embodies the energy and ambition of a new generation of African creatives, shaping the future of global theatre. It's a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and discovery, showcasing how Nigerian talent continues to captivate audiences worldwide."
Mark your calendars and join the celebration as Lagos takes center stage once again!
