Duro Ladipo and his Travelling Theatre

Duro Ladipo (1931-1978) was at the peak of his career as a playwright, composer, director and actor when he died suddenly at the age of 46. Between 1961 and 1978, Ladipo's Travelling Theatre toured twenty countries, performing in major venues like Madison Square Garden in New York City. Coinciding with Nigerian Independence (in 1960) and born out of the salon atmosphere of Mbari-Mbayo Art Club, Ladipo's plays combined Yoruba history and legends with performance traditions of chant, song, drumming and dance. This collection represents an effort by his family and AUC scholars to preserve and share his significant legacy with the public in Nigeria, the United States, and around the world.

Nov 21, 2023

Duro Ladipo and his Travelling Theatre

Duro Ladipo (1931-1978) was at the peak of his career as a playwright, composer, director and actor when he died suddenly at the age of 46. Between 1961 and 1978, Ladipo's Travelling Theatre toured twenty countries, performing in major venues like Madison Square Garden in New York City. Coinciding with Nigerian Independence (in 1960) and born out of the salon atmosphere of Mbari-Mbayo Art Club, Ladipo's plays combined Yoruba history and legends with performance traditions of chant, song, drumming and dance. This collection represents an effort by his family and AUC scholars to preserve and share his significant legacy with the public in Nigeria, the United States, and around the world.