Thespian Theatre’s Kommuniti Project has joined forces with the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) to stage a compelling play titled ‘The Flood’s Fury’. This production, performed by UNIPORT’s Theatre Arts students, highlights the dangers of pollution and environmental abuse. The play attracted a large audience, including students and other university community members.
The success of this production marks another milestone for Thespian Theatre’s pro-environment varsity drama initiative, which has already reached five universities. Launched at Bowen University in Iwo, Osun State, the project has also visited Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko; Kaduna State University; and the University of Abuja. The next stop is Lagos State University, Ojo, where the play will be staged on Friday.
Mrs. Ayo Jaiyesimi, CEO of Thespian Family Theatre and Productions, expressed her delight at the project’s success. She noted, “The success of the productions has been very inspiring. In each university, we stage a different play performed by students, with their lecturers, including heads of departments, as directors or coordinators. With the Kommuniti Theatre Project, we have been able to use theatre to address multiple issues. We propagate the gospel of the environment, encourage lecturers to practicalise what they teach, and give students an opportunity to showcase and grow their talents. The cooperation from university managements has been amazing”.
Rivers State, home to UNIPORT, is particularly vulnerable to environmental degradation due to its status as a hub for oil companies and its numerous rivers. The staging of ‘The Flood’s Fury’ in this region is timely and impactful.
‘The Flood’s Fury’ is a one-act drama that explores the devastating impacts of flooding on a fishing port community in the Niger Delta. The central character, a fisherman, recounts the horrific events as the flood strikes without warning, destroying homes, livelihoods, and lives. The play underscores the fragility of human existence in the face of nature’s wrath and highlights the role of human actions in contributing to such disasters.
