National Theatre to host musical production for Children’s Day

The National Theatre in Lagos is set to host a grand children's musical theatre production titled "I Wish I Wish: Battle of The Winds" as a centerpiece for the 2026 Children's Day celebrations.

Created by the children's theatre company Proud African Roots, the musical is scheduled for May 30 in the theatre's main hall. It is expected to draw a combined audience of 6,000 attendees across two shows. The production promises a unique experience centered on African mythology, original music, and captivating stagecraft, designed to engage children, families, and university students.

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When we talk about building the next generation of Nigerians who value their own culture, we have to start with the experiences we give them as children. This production represents exactly the kind of work this venue was built for.

Set in a fantasy realm inspired by African storytelling traditions, the narrative follows mythical characters guided by Grandma Wura, a storyteller. The plot revolves around a battle between the forces of nature. Organizers highlight the production's use of "VFX-quality makeup and costumes, an original live score, and set design that transforms the main bowl into a fully realized theatrical universe."

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The National Theatre should be a place where a child walks in and discovers something about who they are and where they come from. *I Wish I Wish* does that with a level of ambition and craft that we are proud to be associated with.

Mrs. Tola Akerele, the General Manager/Chief Executive Officer of the National Theatre, emphasized the production's alignment with the venue's mission to foster cultural identity among young Nigerians. "When we talk about building the next generation of Nigerians who value their own culture, we have to start with the experiences we give them as children," Akerele stated. She added that the National Theatre is committed to providing culturally rooted creative experiences, allowing children to discover their heritage.

The organizers aim to demonstrate that high-quality children's entertainment can be produced locally while remaining deeply connected to African stories and culture. This event marks a significant step for children's performing arts in Nigeria, building on Proud African Roots' previous successful performances.

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I want every parent, every school, and every child who walks through these doors on May 30 to feel that something important is happening here