With preparations in full swing for the second edition of TheatreMania Africa Festival (TAF) 2025, veteran actor and industry icon Dr. Akin Lewis says African stories told on stage hold the power to inspire conversations across cultures.
Lewis, who serves as Chairman of the festival’s Board of Trustees, said this year’s theme reflects the global relevance of African theatrical narratives.
“With the theme for the 2025 edition, we believe that African stories, told through the captivating medium of theatre, hold universal appeal and can connect, inspire, and provoke dialogue across cultures,” he said. “We are proud to support TAF 2025 as it brings conversations, performances and recognition to the industry.”
The festival will take place from Tuesday, December 9 to Wednesday, December 10, 2025, across two venues – Shodex Gardens, Ilupeju, and Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. This edition is themed ‘Beyond Borders: Celebrating the Global Reach of African Theatre.’
Speakers and Delegates From Across Africa
Momentum is building across the continent, with a robust lineup of speakers, panelists and creatives expected to participate. Attendees will engage with thought leaders, culture advocates, theatre practitioners and stakeholders from the broader creative industry.
Confirmed guests include industry veterans and international voices such as
Taiwo Ajai-Lycett (OON), Ebo Whyte, founder of Roverman Productions (Ghana), Soro Badrissa of Côte d’Ivoire, Marc Berbant of Alliance Française, Norbert Young, Francis Onwochei, Adeniran Makinde (NANTAP President), Dr. Titilayo Adebayo, and several others spanning Nigeria, Ghana, Malawi, South Africa and more.
Government officials, traditional leaders and cultural administrators are also expected, including Lagos State Commissioner for Health Prof. Akin Abayomi, NTDA Director-General Mr. Olayiwola Awakan, and prominent traditional rulers.
Festival Attractions
TAF 2025 will feature a rich lineup of events such as:
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Street Theatre
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Stakeholders Roundtable
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Veteran Fireside Conversation
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Generation Next Theatre (GNT) showcases
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Healthy Arts Initiative
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Arts, Products and Services Exhibition
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Command Performances
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Hall of Fame Induction
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Gala and Awards Night
These activities are curated to spotlight African creativity, encourage cross-continental dialogue and promote theatre as a tool for cultural exchange.
Celebrating the Global Footprint of African Theatre
Speaking on the festival’s broader vision, Alayande Stephen, CEO and Co-Founder of TheatreMania Africa Festival, described the theme as a call to recognise Africa’s expanding artistic influence.
“‘Beyond Borders’ is more than a tagline, it’s a testament to the undeniable influence and growing reach of African theatre worldwide,” he said. “TAF 2025 will showcase groundbreaking performances and thought-provoking narratives that reflect the brilliance of African artistry. This is a celebration of the voices and visionaries who connect us all.”
The organisers say TAF 2025 aims not only to celebrate African theatre but to cement its role on the global stage.
