On March 1, Playwrights at Terra Academy for the Arts attempted, once again, to prod at the complexities of Nigerian society through live theatre. Terra Kulture played host to Laali and Bottom Power, two works that, while stylistically distinct, share a deep concern for the ways women navigate a world designed to contain them.

 

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Laali positions itself as a solemn meditation on womanhood, identity, and resistance, while Bottom Power flirts with comedy, deploying humor as a means of subversion. It is playful, sharp-witted, and driven by the kind of humor that makes its observations even more biting. At its core is a woman who refuses to play by the rules, whose choices unsettle expectations, and whose power is drawn not from quiet endurance, but from an open and deliberate rejection of the status quo.

During the plays, the actors maneuvered the set around themselves, adjusting the space from intimate interiors to abstract, open-ended representations of power. Lighting cues are subtle, demanding that the audience pay attention to shifts in tone rather than being guided by overt theatricality.

Both plays speak to a tradition of storytelling that places women at the forefront, not as symbols or supporting figures, but as the directors of their own lives. This is not a recent development, of course. From ancient oral traditions to contemporary literature, women have always told their own stories, even when history has tried to silence them.

It is fitting that these plays arrive in March, a month that brings renewed attention to the contributions of women across all fields.

By the end of the evening, it was evident that TALP-X 3.0 was a genuine success. The performances, direction, and stage design all reflected the students’ remarkable dedication and hard work. This initiative, a key part of TAFTA’s efforts, provides invaluable hands-on experience, allowing young creatives to develop their skills and showcase their talent. If you weren’t able to attend, you truly missed an exceptional theatrical experience. Fortunately, TAFTA will continue to provide these opportunities. By attending future performances, you can directly support the development of these talented young storytellers.

See more photos below.