By Maxim Uzoatu
Universities see convocations as a function of immense significance. Sanjana Bankar stresses that a convocation symbolizes the acknowledgement of every student’s relentless effort and achievement. It is more than just a ceremonial event – it is a moment of recognition for the sacrifices, late nights and early mornings filled with commitments.
It’s in the full realization of these facts that the Department of Theatre and Film Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, has been commissioned by the Chairman, Senate Ceremonials Committee, Professor Elise Umeano to produce a drama to mark the 53rd convocation ceremony of UNN.
The drama is Greg Mbajiorgu’s Wake up Everyone, a thought-provoking play that focuses on the pressing issue of climate crises. Wake Up Everyone aims to: Raise awareness by highlighting the urgency and severity of climate change, its causes, and its far-reaching consequences; Inspire action by encouraging audiences to take individual and collective action to reduce their carbon footprint through adopting sustainable practices and advocating for climate policies; Explore human impact by delving into the human stories and experiences of people affected by the climate crises such as displacement, loss, and resilience.
Greg Mbajiorgu uses the aesthetics of drama as a tool for environmental advocacy. In this experimental play, Wake Up Everyone, he makes a powerful critique of the shoddy manner humanity is relating with the natural environment. Consequently, he raises a strong case for the conservation of the environment as the antidote to the threat of climate change.
The title “Wake Up Everyone” emphasizes the need for immediate attention, collective awareness, and concerted action to address the climate crises.
It is noteworthy that the play, 10 years ago, in its infant edition, was directed by Nnanna Ndubuisi as the 44th UNN convocation play.
Dignitaries expected to attend this theatrical event are the Chairman of the Governing Council of UNN, General Ike Nwachukwu and other members of the Council, the Chancellor of the University, and the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University Prof Polycarp Emeka Chigbu, Members of the UNN Alumni Association from Nigeria and the Diaspora, Deans of Faculties, Professors and Distinguished Guests to the University.
Directors of Centres and Institutions, Heads of Departments and other friends of the University. The host of the event is Professor Elsie Umeano, Chairman Senate Ceremonials Committee, and the Chief Host is Prof Polycarp E. Chigbu, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
This experimental play, directed by Greg Mbajiorgu, Samsong Ganiru and Daniel Chibuko, features Theatre Arts students and beyond.
Some of the star actors and actresses featuring in the performance are: Sopulu Nwachukwu, Samsong Ganiru, Samuel Ezeobi, Naomi Ibekwe, Chidubem Ogbue, Abraham Queen, Dabeluchkwu Ibik and numerous others including the best singers, dancers and members of the Paul Robeson’s Orchestra.
The performance will take place by 6; 00pm, Friday, December 20, 2024 at the New Arts Theatre, UNN.
All convoking students and their relatives/friends are expected to be in attendance.