Stage plays and cultural performances took centre stage at the maiden edition of Itansan ArtFest 2026, as dramatists, dancers, and creatives delivered captivating displays to promote African heritage and indigenous storytelling.
The festival held on Saturday at the Adeline Hall of Lead City University, Ibadan, drew cultural enthusiasts, artists, curators, students, and stakeholders from across the arts and tourism sector.
Themed “Beacon of the Ancestors,” the event featured a blend of theatre performances, cultural dance, spoken word, fashion showcases, trade exhibitions, workshops, and artistic presentations that celebrated African traditions and identity.
A major highlight was the series of stage dramas that drew loud applause from guests. Performers interpreted African history, spirituality, morality, and communal values through live storytelling. The displays, backed by traditional music, chants, costumes, and symbolic expressions, created an atmosphere that reflected the depth of indigenous heritage.
Convener Adekunle Elizabeth Adewunmi, popularly known as Adewunmi Itansan, said the festival was created to preserve and promote African culture by using art to engage younger generations.
“We wanted culture to be experienced and not just discussed. Through theatre, performances, and storytelling, people are able to connect emotionally with their heritage and understand the values embedded in our traditions,” she said.
Adewunmi noted that the festival was designed to bridge the gap between modern lifestyles and cultural consciousness among youths.
“We are seeing a generation heavily influenced by global culture but gradually disconnected from indigenous identity. Festivals like this help to restore that connection in a creative and engaging way,” she stated.
She added that Itansan ArtFest was structured to make culture attractive, dynamic, and relevant to contemporary audiences, particularly young people.
The convener also launched her cultural book, Emissaries of the Gods (Iko Orisa) during the event.
She described it as part of efforts to introduce children and teenagers to African mythology, values, and indigenous knowledge systems through literature.
Beyond the theatrical displays, guests enjoyed fashion parades inspired by African heritage, spoken word poetry, drumming sessions, and exhibitions of indigenous crafts and artworks.
Dignitaries present included the Osun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Ojo Abiodun; the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun; Rashidat Olayinka Ladoja; Abiodun Adeyemi; renowned artist and curator, Tunde Odunlade; and Adekunle Alonge.
