Spoken word poetry isn’t a new art form in Nigeria as is commonly perceived. At best, its institutionalisation as a commercial entertainment art form can be considered new. Saying it is new art would be similar to thinking comedy was new in Nigeria before it became a mainstream and commercial art form. Oral history tells […]
The first international poetry festival ever to take place in West Africa is happening just outside our doorstep. Names like Efe Paul, Titilope Sonuga, Donna, Lola Shoneyin, Warsan Shire and so many more will be leading workshops, masterclasses, panel discussions and more. If you have even the smallest love of poetry and spoken word, you […]
Vivid Verses is a platform that boasts over 100 poets under its belt. Spoken word is growing rapidly in Nigeria, and Vivid Verses is right at the centre of the growth. It has given voice to both the known and the unknown, and is fast becoming a gem in the poetry world. It recently gave […]
Bogobiri hosts a new movement in town! Don’t Drop the Mic is a rap and hip-hop based show designed to encourage artists to step up to the mic and showcase their lyrical talent. The name is an expression of one’s ability to hold on to the mic by displaying talent that will captivate the attention […]
There is a scene in Lagos that only the privileged few are even aware of. A movement that takes place in the evenings, in bars and lounges whilst the masses pack themselves into clubs like sardines in a can. It surprises many to know that there is a formidable spoken word scene in Nigeria and […]