As part of his official visit to Lagos State on Wednesday, April 24, President Muhammadu Buhari commissioned the new Lagos Theatre situated in Oregun as well as other major landmark projects executed by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.
In line with his vision to develop the sectors of tourism, hospitality, entertainment and sport, the 400-capacity theatre is just one of the four conceived and executed projects by the outgoing governor as part of his agenda.
In his welcome address, Ambode noted that the facility was meant to be a strategy to absorb many Lagosians with innovative and imaginative talents, as well as provide a platform for artistic expression in film making, poetry, dance, drama and music.
“The Lagos Theatre, which is located at Oregun and replicated in other parts of the state, such as Igando, Epe and Badagry in its first phase, is aimed at expanding the arts and performance spaces in Lagos, as well as to promote a thriving creative economy within the communities where these projects are located,” he noted.
The brand new Lagos Theatre boasts standard furnishing, a gallery, artiste changing room, rehearsal hall, restaurant space, rest rooms, alternative power generating sets and a well-laid out car park.
A popular filmmaker, Kunle Afolayan, described the unveiling of the new theatre as a positive development.
“For me, this is a very good innovation. Beyond the arts and entertainment, I see it as a commercial hub. Some of the problems we have been facing, even as practitioners, is the fact that it is difficult to monetise our contents. In this case, it is a win-win for everybody. At the moment we have quite a few cinemas, but they cannot double as theatres.
“This is the first time that we’re having six theatres that can double as cinemas in Lagos. The only spot that used to provide these kinds of services and ambience was the National Theatre. But since the latter has been grounded, I think the Lagos Theatre will change the mindset of the people,” he said.
The commissioning was also attended by some members of the Federal Executive Council, the President’s aides and Governors Ibikunle Amosu of Ogun State, Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, Isiaka Ajimobi of Oyo State, Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State and the Governor-elect of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwoolu and his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat.
Source: Punch