Fela’s Broadway musical titled ‘Fela Ten Twenty’ is set for its audio adaptation debut according to the producers, who have revealed that the audio adaptation will premiere OnClubhouse, thepopulardrop-in audio chat platform, which boasts a user base of over 20 million members.
Stephen Hendel, the Original Lead Producer of the Broadway Show, ‘Fela!’, announced that proceeds from the show will support GEANCO, whose David Oyelowo Leadership Scholarship provides full tuition, healthcare, and social and psychological support to young female survivors of terrorism and gender inequality.
Written and directed by filmmaker Funa Maduka, ‘Fela Ten Twenty’, will feature an exciting new interpretation of Bill T. Jones’ and Jim Lewis’ Original FELA! Script, framing the ongoing #EndSars movement in the context of Fela Kuti’s legacy. Music for the production will be recorded in Lagos, Nigeria by The Cavemen, the band rekindling Nigerian highlife with their new album Roots.
“Fela’s music, the foundation for Afrobeat, demanded global engagement with African political thought. In the aftermath of the October 2020 #EndSARS protests against police brutality, his message still achingly resounds. This production is a love letter to those fighting for a better Nigeria,” says Maduka.
“Fela belongs to Nigeria, Africa and the world. It is a thrill to have the show reimagined by a team of young, creative Nigerians. I’m proud to support these artistes who have come together to honour Fela Kuti’s legacy with such immense commitment and dedication,” says Stephen Hendel, whose hit Broadway show was nominated for 11 Tony Awards.
