How LITF turns Lagos bus stop Banter into musical magic

Tomilola Adeniran a playwright and performer, who is known as the viral valedictorian from Pan-Atlantic University has turned the regular Lagos bus banter into musical magic in his debut original musical play “The Wait” at the Lagos International Theatre Festival (LITF) on the 15th and 16th of November at MUSON Center.

The Wait is a humorous and heartfelt 30-minute production set entirely at a Lagos bus stop, where three strangers, each in a rush for very different reasons, find themselves united by the frustrations, hopes, and humor of everyday Nigerian life. Through song, banter, and unexpected moments of connection, the play explores resilience, shared humanity, and the bonds that form in the most ordinary places.

“I wrote The Wait as a story about Lagos – its chaos, its laughter, and its humanity. Having it come alive at LITF, surrounded by audiences who live these experiences daily, feels like the perfect beginning.”Tomilola said, speaking about the upcoming premiere.

LITF, spearheaded by Bolanle Austen-Peters in collaboration with Lagos State, is Nigeria’s newest global stage for theatre and live performance. Premiering in 2024, the festival has gained recognition as a hub for storytelling, cultural exchange, and artistic innovation, with a diverse program of plays, workshops, and international collaborations.

Beyond its festival debut, The Wait is also available as a licensable production for theatres, universities, and community groups looking to stage fresh, Nigerian stories with global resonance.