An enchanting night of African storytelling

Featuring a Yoruba tale of the Orishas (The Illusion of Truth by Mara Menzies) and a scandalous story of secrets and rivalry from contemporary Nigerian fiction (Maimouna Jallow’s adaptation of the acclaimed novel The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives). 

The Illusion of Truth

Ochosi, the finest hunter in the world, dreams of one day becoming an Orisha. Will his skill and determination be enough to prove himself to the gods? With energy and intrigue, storyteller Mara Menzies brings to life an ancient Yoruba tale of justice and truth.

Mara Menzies is a performance storyteller, playwright and creative director of Afrika Presents, an educational organisation committed to celebrating the diversity of African cultures through interactive play. Passionate about the power of story in relation to identity, she has led workshops and shared stories across the globe.

The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives

Baba Segi, the ultimate patriarch, must try to unravel the mystery behind his fourth wife’s infertility. Through his quest, we find out about the burdens society places on women and the cunning ways they escape from the confines of poverty and patriarchy. Based on the novel by Nigerian author Lola Shoneyin, this endearing and powerful tale of deception, betrayal, love, and friendship is performed as a one-woman show by storyteller Maimouna Jallow.

Co-founder of Positively African, Maimouna Jallow uses traditional African storytelling to reimagine and explore contemporary tales of modernity, identity and all that exists in the cracks in-between. A writer, journalist and lover of words, she has performed at festivals across the African continent and beyond. Her fiction and poetry has appeared in the Fifth Draft and Fresh Paint anthologies. 

This event is suitable for those aged 16+.

Enjoy food and drink purchased from the Knowledge Centre Bar from 18.00 and after the event until the Bar closes at 22.00. 

Part of Africa Writes

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