Lagos:The National Troupe of Nigeria (NTN) has reopened its music department with a performance that highlighted songs from various regions of Nigeria and other African countries.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mrs. Kaltume Gana, Artistic Director and CEO of the National Troupe of Nigeria, announced the revival during an event themed ‘Songs Across the Nation’ at the National Troupe Amphitheatre, National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos.
The event aimed to promote national unity through music and featured the talents of over 20 students from five institutions. These students showcased their skills in music, dance, and drama.
Gana highlighted plans to compile and digitally share folklore from different parts of Nigeria, making it accessible to researchers and those interested in African culture. The production seeks to unite diverse talents through music while documenting and preserving cultural heritage.
Monica Adeniyi, Assistant Director of Music at NTN, explained that the department had been inactive since 2016. She decided to revive it upon taking office in 2023 to emphasize the role of music in theatrical arts. The production included songs from Nigeria’s ethnic groups and music from Ghana and South Africa.
Guest artist Samson Alhassan, known as ‘Gas Cooker’, encouraged young creatives to persist in their artistic endeavors, noting that persistence is key to achieving success. Alhassan, a founding member of the National Troupe, emphasized that age should not deter anyone from pursuing their talents.
The programme featured performances by the National Troupe, including folklore and choral songs, with guest artists also entertaining the audience.