By Damiete Braide
•Members of the cast during their rehearsals.
In a mesmerizing fusion of history and drama, playwright, William Benson, has unveiled his latest opus, The Rising Sun, casting a luminous spotlight on the extraordinary life of Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi of the Benin Kingdom.
Set against the tumultuous backdrop of the 1897 Invasion of Benin, the narrative unfurls the saga of exile, downfall and succession of Oba Ovonramwen, offering a poignant exploration of Benin culture through vibrant storytelling, dance and music.
Scheduled to grace the stage at the prestigious Muson Centre on May 4th, 5th, and 11th, the production boasts a stellar ensemble cast of 60, featuring esteemed actors, such as Patrick Doyle (Captain Gallway), ThinTallTony (Consul Phillip), Seyi Fasuyi Fta (Oba Ovonramwen), Stephen Ogundele (Chief Obaseki), Victor Coker (Chief Numa), Inem Inyang (Narrator), Tony Okuyeme (Uzazakpo), Nissi George (Ologbosere), among others.
Leading the ensemble is Seyi Fasuyi as Oba Ovonramwen, embodying the regal dignity and resilience of the monarch amidst adversity. Supported by Stephen Ogundele as Chief Obaseki and Victor Coker as Chief Numa, the cast promises to deliver a riveting performance that captures the essence of Benin history.
Through intricate choreography and evocative musical, The Rising Sun: Ovonramwen Nogbaisi, delves into the cataclysmic events of the great Benin massacre of 1897, illuminating the harrowing experiences of the Benin people under British colonial rule. Moreover, the play offers poignant insights into Oba Ovonramwen’s exile in Essien Town in Calabar from 1897 to 1914, a period marked by resilience, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of a people facing adversity.
Benson’s meticulous attention to detail and his unique perspective promise to breathe new life into the narrative, shedding light on previously overlooked facets of Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi’s exile and his eventual ascension to the throne by his son, Eweka II.
At a press preview, Benson articulated his aspiration for the play to serve as a definitive portrayal of Benin history, commemorating the 127th anniversary of Ovonramwen’s dispossession from the throne. He emphasised the need for support from the Edo State Government, stating, “I want the play to be that version that the Benin Kingdom will approve of. We need the support of the Edo State Government.”
Curated by Quebic 4 Productions Limited, renowned for its epic dramas, including Gods Are Not To Blame and The Lion And The Jewel, and supported by businessman Ggadesola Adenrele, The Risin Sun…embodies a vision for cultural enrichment and historical preservation.
As the curtain rises at the Muson Centre, audiences are transported to a bygone era, where the spirit of resilience and the enduring legacy of Oba Ovonramwen shine brightly. Through The Rising Sun… Benson invites us to reflect on the power of storytelling to preserve our cultural heritage and inspire future generations.