Reaffirming the Power of Children’s Theatre

The return of the Broadway-style children's musical "I Wish, I Wish" to the National Theatre in Lagos, Nigeria, has delivered a spectacular theatrical experience, imparting timeless moral lessons and rekindling the magic of storytelling through the beloved character Grandma Wura.

The production, a joint initiative of Story Theatre with Grandma Wura and the National Theatre, captivated a diverse audience, including children, parents, and grandparents. The show's dazzling costumes and imaginative props heightened the sense of wonder, amplified by its staging on the National Theatre's largest stage.

Directed by Bola Edwards, who also reprised her role as Grandma Wura, the musical featured a full live ensemble, primarily using African instruments. The production design seamlessly integrated traditional African heritage with modern digital innovation, enhanced by a striking 3D projection backdrop and fluid set transitions between a classroom, cityscape, and an Igbo village.

The storyline follows Nkechi, a city girl who wishes to become an ant to escape chores, only to discover the ant colony's world of relentless hard work and communal sacrifice. This narrative offers a compelling lesson in perspective, contrasting Nkechi's initial frustration with the ants' disciplined society. Grandma Wura's final warning, "Be careful what you wish for, because the Wind of Wishes might just be around the corner to grant it," resonated deeply with the captivated audience.

“

Be careful what you wish for, because the Wind of Wishes might just be around the corner to grant it.