Meet Nigerian writer, director, and producer Ifeoma Fafunwa

Date: 

Saturday, February 13, 2016, 12:00pm to 1:00pm

Location: 

Loeb Drama Center Dance Studio

4x6_Ifeoma_FafunwaIfeoma Fafunwa will discuss HEAR WORD!, which will be presented at Harvard April 15-17.

HEAR WORD! is a powerful piece of performance art that combines artistry, social commentary and true-life stories of inequality and transformation, delivered by some of Nigeria’s most talented actresses. The stories are based on real life issues affecting the lives of women across Nigeria and examine what factors limit their potential for independence, leadership, and meaningful contribution. The show not only gives a voice to these women, it provides the world with insight into their unique or universal challenges.

Tackling topics such as circumcision, child marriages, and barrenness; as well as more universal challenges like child molestation, gender-based violence and woman trafficking, HEAR WORD! bravely serves up the cultural and societal norms that oppress and limit the potential for women. It asks African women to break the culture of silence, challenge the status quo, move beyond barriers, and create solutions.

HEAR WORD! is directed and produced by Ifeoma Fafunwa and stars some of Nollywood’s greats: Taiwo Ajai-Lycett, Joke Silva, Bimbo Akintola, Omonor, Elvina Ibru, Ufuoma McDermott, Zara Udofia, Lala Akindoju, Rita Edward, Debbie Ohiri and Odenike.

This production is cosponsored by the American Repertory Theater, the Center for African Studies, the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, and Theater, Dance & Media.