AYO THEATER: YEAR IN REVIEW (2023)
Reflecting on a Remarkable Year: Celebrating Six Outstanding Plays
Adunni
Our Father
JAJA
A Very Nigerian Dream
EYO
The Sea
As we stand on the threshold of a new year, it is with immense gratitude and joy that we reflect upon the incredible journey of AYO THEATER throughout the past twelve months. 2023 has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by the staging of six captivating plays that have left an indelible mark on our artistic landscape.
Adunni:
Chain Theater, February 2023
Written and Directed by Taiwo Aloba
Featuring: Evan Simone, Raheem Kareem, Nezim Mmegwa, and Matthew Braddak
Our Father
Brick Theater, April 2023
Written and Directed by Taiwo Aloba
Featuring: Taiwo Aloba and Jakai Brown
JAJA
New York Theater Festival, April 2023
Nominations: Best Production, Most Creative Play, Best Director, Best Costume Design, and Best Choreography
Winner: Most Creative Play, Best Costume Design, and Best Choreography
Written and Directed by Taiwo Aloba
Featuring: Elisha Glass, Kennedy Kandi, James, Kerry Kebrina, Jakai Brown, Alice Nkanga, Joshua Lupyan, Destiny Betts, Caleb Alexander, Jeffrey Polanco, Michelle Kariuki, Kingsley Yeboah, and King Downing
A Very Nigerian Dream
Chain Theater, June 2023
Written and Directed by Taiwo Aloba
Featuring: Ammunikee Gomez and Neo-entle Tlhole
EYO
Culture Lab LIC, October-November 2023
Written and Directed by Taiwo Aloba
Featuring: Estelle Bikibili, Watson Mere, Elisha Glass, Delayna Little, Odera Adimorah, Kerry Kebrina, Alice Nkanga, Taiwo Aloba, Thomas Cobb, and King Downing
The Sea
The Tank NYC, December 2023
Written and Directed by Taiwo Aloba
Featuring: Enih Agwe and Estelle Bikibili
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Exceptional Actors
Our talented and dedicated actors have been the lifeblood of our productions, infusing each play with passion, authenticity, and boundless creativity. To every performer who graced our stage this year, we extend our deepest appreciation. Your commitment to bringing stories to life has been the driving force behind our success, and we are immensely grateful for the talent and energy you have shared with us.
Gratitude to Our Supporters
Behind every successful performance, there is a community of supporters who champion the arts. To all those who attended our shows, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your unwavering support has not only fueled our artistic endeavors but has also been a testament to the vibrant cultural tapestry we aim to weave through our productions.
Acknowledging Well-Wishers and Advocates
In the spirit of unity and collaboration, we express our sincere thanks to the well-wishers and advocates who have cheered us on throughout the year. Your words of encouragement, constructive feedback, and advocacy for the arts have been instrumental in shaping our identity as a theater company.
Looking Forward with Optimism
As we turn the page to a new chapter, we are filled with optimism and excitement for the possibilities that lie ahead. The experiences, lessons, and connections forged in 2023 will undoubtedly serve as a foundation for even greater achievements in the coming year.
In closing, we extend our warmest wishes to our actors, supporters, and well-wishers. Your contributions have been pivotal to our success, and we are genuinely grateful for the shared moments of creativity, laughter, and inspiration.
Here's to a new year filled with boundless creativity, enriching collaborations, and the continued celebration of the arts.
With profound appreciation,
AYO THEATER
