On Monday, June 24, 2024, the Utopia Theatre announced award-winning Nigerian star actress Kehinde Bankole as one of the cast for the stage adaptation of Anna Hibiscus’ Song by Atinuke and Lauren Tobia.

As they welcome Bankole into the fold, Utopia Theatre also gear up to take Anna Hibiscus’ Song to nine cities in the UK, following recent funding from Arts Council England. The tour will open at Bristol Old Vic from August 28-31,2024  and then close at Unicorn Theatre in London from October 9-13, 2024.

Speaking about her latest role, the actress expressed the desire for adventure, whilst sharing the African story to other parts of the world. “I’m always seeking new adventures and particularly enjoy sharing the vibrant essence of African stories and its rich tapestry. I’m so looking forward to being part of this wonderful adaptation of a beautiful story which will capture the imagination of audiences young and old,” she said. 

 

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The actress joins the original cast from its 2023 production; Malick Bojang – Grandfather, Chocolate and Storyteller, Althea Burey – Mama, Angel and Storyteller, Dorthea Darby – Grandmother, Uncle Tunde, Benz and Storyteller, Julius Obende – Papa, on-stage .musician and Storyteller and Saskia Rose – Anna Hibiscus and Storyteller. 

Kehinde Bankole, time and time again, has proved her versatility in the creative industry across Africa. She recently bagged the award of Best Lead Actress at the 2024 African Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) for her role in Adire. In 2023, she voiced the character Moremi in Disney’s Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire and now has won everyone with her stellar performance in Funmilayo Ransome Kuti.