According to a statement from the organizers, the production, helmed by the renowned Bolanle Austen-Peters, a leading figure in Nigerian theatre, resumed performances on Thursday, December 26, and will continue daily until Sunday, January 5, 2025.
This play serves as a highlight for the yuletide season, following the successful inaugural edition of the Lagos International Theatre Festival (LITF), which took place in November, organized by Terra Kulture and BAP Productions.
Produced by Austen-Peters and Joseph Umoibom, Dear Kaffi – Kike’s Story narrates the compelling journey of Kikelomo Olota, a 35-year-old single woman navigating the complexities of life, love, and societal pressures in Lagos. Despite her academic excellence earning her admiration since her youth, Kike's lack of romantic experiences sets her apart.
In her quest for acceptance, she sacrifices her intellect for popularity, leading her into a series of tumultuous relationships. From Femi, a charming yet dishonest partner, to Emeka, who appears perfect but is secretly married, Kike's path is fraught with heartbreak and valuable lessons that reshape her understanding of love and self-worth.
Under increasing pressure from her family, particularly her father, Kike meets Debo, a suitor with whom she feels an unexpected bond. However, her past resurfaces with the arrival of Tamuno, an ex-boyfriend whose reappearance jeopardizes her developing relationship with Debo.
As Kike grapples with her aspirations and societal expectations, she must confront her insecurities, reassess her values, and determine what is truly important in her life.
Dear Kaffy – Kike’s Story is a lively examination of love, identity, and the quest for authenticity, infused with humor, music, and a keen critique of societal norms amidst significant pressures.
The cast features esteemed actors such as Bimbo Manuel, Uzo Osimkpa, Yewande Osamein, Abiola Lepe, Sharon Adaeze, Ralph Okoro, Nonzo Bassey, Hector Amiwero, Floyd Igbo, and Bukola Ogunnote.
Additionally, the production boasts a talented crew, including stage manager Ikenna Jude Okpala, with music direction by Kehinde Oretimehin and Deji Aremu, contributing to this remarkable performance.
Co-producer Joseph Umoibom expresses enthusiasm for the play's return following its initial presentation at the recent LITF.
“Dear Kaffi was a star among the rich line-up of plays we presented at the Lagos International Theatre Festival. It connected very well with the audience, and the feedback was fantastic. We reckon it is the perfect play for the audience this period. It is the perfect companion to bring theatre lovers to the end of the year and lead them into a promising new year,” he said.
Austen-Peters, who created the annual Lagos International Theatre Festival and has led a creative revolution through Terra Kulture in the last 20 years, also expressed joy that the theatre scene is holding its own this holiday season.
She said: “Lagos is agog this yuletide season, with everyone lit up by exciting people. We are pleased to see that our play is one of the programs giving joy to the people, and the response has been tremendous. We are fully sold out, and it’s glad that Dear Kaffi will be part of the entertainment and creative sector activities in the first five days of the new year.”