Abuja Art and Culture

Members of the Abuja Play-reading Group meet once a month at the residence of a member (who usually volunteers) to read lines from popular plays. On these nights, participants are given copies of the play that has been previously selected by the organizer (Newman Gonpil). The director (who is also a volunteer) then explains the setting and may say something about the play, after which he or she assigns roles. Those who don't read simply sit back, relax, and listen. There are no lines to learn, no costumes, no special effects or on-stage kissing. Also, no acting experience needed. Admission is free, but participants are requested to bring along some food and drinks to share with everyone. The Abuja Play-reading Group was initiated by Daniel Plas, who has left Abuja.

The March reading (click on photo to enlarge) was hosted and directed by Annie of the US Embassy. Wole Soyinka's JERO'S METAMOPHOSSIS was read, a satire that did not fail to elicit laughter from the participants.

Participating in these sessions is one of the fastest ways of getting acquainted with famous plays and, of course, meeting people who are arts-inclined...
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