“The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives” Returns to Arcola Theatre After Sold-Out Run

Arcola Theatre has announced the return of  “The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives,” the critically acclaimed stage production directed by OBE recipient Femi Elufowoju jr. Following a sold-out run and five-star reviews, the play will run from April 26 to May 31, 2025, in London.

Based on Lola Shoneyin’s bestselling novel and adapted for the stage by playwright Rotimi Babatunde, the production was previously described by The Guardian as “nothing short of spectacular.” Other major outlets, including The Stage, WhatsOnStage, and the Evening Standard, awarded it four-star reviews.

Set in modern-day Nigeria, the story follows wealthy patriarch Baba Segi, who has three wives and seven children. When he brings home Bolanle, a young university graduate, her arrival threatens to unravel secrets that could tear the family apart.

The 2025 production will feature a talente8d ensemble cast, including Kemi Adekoya, Mofe Akande, Patrice Naiambana, Dolapo Oni, and Diana Yekinni. Audiences can expect a lively theatrical experience enhanced by live Yoruba music, songs, and dance performances.

Elufowoju jr., who won an Offie Award for Best Director for the 2018 staging of the play, brings a wealth of experience to the revival. His recent credits include Verdi’s Rigoletto for Opera North, which won a South Bank Sky Arts Award for Best Opera Production, and Der anonyme Liebhaber for Konzert und Theater St. Gallen.

In addition to the performances, theatre-goers can attend An Audience with Lola Shoneyin on May 17 — a special event featuring a live discussion with the author and director.

The production is a collaboration between Arcola Theatre and The Elufowoju jr Ensemble, which first presented the adaptation in 2013 at Nigeria’s Ake Festival.