Nigeria has talents for global circus industry — National Theatre GM

Tola Akerele, General Manager of the National Theatre, believes Nigeria possesses untapped talent that could establish it as a player in the global contemporary circus industry. During the unveiling of the Lagos Contemporary Circus Festival, Akerele highlighted Nigeria's rich cultural heritage, traditional dances, acrobatics, and other physical performances as valuable assets for developing a homegrown circus industry.

She explained that circus combines various disciplines, including theatre, dance, juggling, and acrobatics, making it an art, craft, and sport. Akerele pointed out that several traditional performances in Nigeria, especially in the North, already involve acrobatics, movement, and dance, which could be further developed through contemporary circus.

The main challenge, according to her, lies in identifying existing talent, exposing performers to international techniques, and creating professional development opportunities.

Akerele emphasized that Nigeria's circus sector is still in its early stages and needs to be structured properly. She stated that contemporary circus is still relatively new to many Nigerians, despite incorporating familiar forms of performance such as dance and acrobatics. The festival aims to lay the foundation for a more robust circus sector in Nigeria, creating employment and providing young Nigerians with alternative career opportunities.

Some Nigerians are already practicing circus disciplines like juggling and contortion, but they lack the necessary structures and community support to further develop their skills.

Chantal Djedje, founder of La Fabrique Culturelle, agreed that Africa already had a strong foundation for circus, citing traditional dances and movements across the continent as evidence. Even in Lagos, she pointed out street performers doing circus, demonstrating the talent available locally. Similarly, Dereje Dange, co-founder and Artistic Director of Fekat Circus, shared how Ethiopia's circus sector grew significantly after starting from a small base, eventually leading to international opportunities for performers.

Swiss circus artist Jessica Arpin stressed that circus provides space for people with different body types, physical abilities, and interests.