The The Beauty of a People: ‘Nma Oha’, a stage play series on the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people to launch on October 1, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.
This initiative seeks to bring together Igbo people worldwide to collaborate in promoting the culture, heritage, and traditions of Igboland across the South-East regions of Nigeria.
Themed “Stage Play Series: The Beauty of a People ‘NMA OHA'”, the event aims to showcase and celebrate the richness of Igbo customs and traditions while fostering peace, unity, and development among all Igbo people.
During a press conference yesterday in Abuja, the Producer and Artistic Director of NMA OHA: The Beauty of a People and CEO of ROW Productions Ltd., Mr. Patrick Otoro, emphasized that each performance will delve into the distinct customs, folklore, music, and dance of different Nigerian tribes, offering a vivid portrayal of the country’s diverse cultural identity.
According to him, ‘Nma Oha’, which translates to “The Beauty of A People” in Igbo language, reflects the play’s central theme of celebrating the unique identity and cultural richness of Igbo people.
“Nma Oha: The Beauty of A People, is a captivating stage play that serves as a vibrant showcase of Igbo cultural heritage.”
“This production delves into the rich traditions, values, and narratives of the Igbo people, weaving together folklore, music, dance, and drama to create an immersive experience for the audience.”
“Through its engaging storyline, the play explores the significance of communal ties, traditional practices, and the resilience of the Igbo spirit amidst modern challenges.
“Authentic costumes and traditional music further enhance the visual and auditory experience, allowing audiences to appreciate the beauty and complexity of Igbo culture,” he said.
“On October 1, at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton, Nma Oha will be staged, not only entertain, but also educate, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Igbo way of life.
Otoro said the star studded play would feature veteran Nollywood actors including Francis Duru, Sydney Diala and Monalisa Chinda, among other cast.
He added that the play would serve as a reminder of the importance of cultural preservation in an increasingly globalised world, encouraging audiences to embrace their heritage and celebrate their roots.
According to the producer, ‘Nma Oha’ is first in a thrilling series of stage play tagged “The Beauty of A People”, that serves as a dynamic showcase of Nigeria’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.
“The Beauty of A People” is created with the intention of celebrating the myriad tribes that make up the nation.
“This series acts as a cultural export, allowing audiences both within Nigeria and around the world to appreciate the unique traditions, languages, and stories that define each community.
“Each performance delves into the distinct customs, folklore, music, and dance associated with different Nigerian tribes, painting a vivid picture of the nation’s multifaceted identity,” he said.
On his part, lead Actor Francis Duru, said the narrative is brought to life by a talented cast whose performances highlight the nuances of Igbo customs, from marriage rituals to communal festivals. Authentic costumes and traditional music enhance the visual and auditory experience, allowing audiences to fully appreciate the beauty and complexity of Igbo culture.
Duru, underscored that “NMA OHA” not only entertains but also educates, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Igbo way of life. It serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural preservation in an increasingly globalized world, encouraging audiences to embrace their heritage and celebrate their roots.
“This stage play is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Igbo people and their contributions to the tapestry of Nigerian culture,” he said.
