Mayowa Daramola, a Nigerian film producer, says interactive stage plays are becoming an important direction for Nigeria’s theatre space, citing their immersive and audience-driven nature. He describes the format as one that encourages deeper engagement and emotional connection beyond traditional storytelling.
The producer, known for Closure is for Wigs, collaborates again with Niyi Akinmolayan’s Anthill Studios and Immersia to stage Love is Sweeter Where the Grid Works, scheduled to debut in June. The production continues his exploration of love as a central theme while expanding into interactive performance.
Speaking with The Nollywood Reporter, Daramola says changing social patterns are contributing to renewed interest in communal experiences. He notes that audiences are gradually returning to shared physical spaces, creating room for theatre formats that encourage participation.
“Research shows that community gatherings are coming back,” he says. “It makes sense to create stories that bring people together in a shared space.”
He explains that interactivity enhances both audience experience and performance delivery, making stories more relatable and engaging. According to him, the format goes beyond passive viewing and allows audiences to feel directly connected to the narrative.
“I think interactive stage play is the future,” he says. “We have not just built an interactive show but an immersive, interactive and conversational one.”
Beyond engagement, Daramola adds that immersive theatre allows audiences to experience the emotional and environmental realities of the story more directly. He notes that this creates a stronger and more lasting impact.
“Beyond the story, there is also an impact side to it,” he says. “The audience can feel the realities of what is happening on stage.”
The inspiration for Love is Sweeter Where the Grid Works, he explains, is tied to Nigeria’s democracy month in June. He notes that while the period marks a significant moment in the country’s history, it also reflects ongoing challenges such as insecurity, economic hardship, and migration.
Daramola says the production explores these realities through a love story, examining how broader national issues affect personal relationships. He adds that the narrative aims to bring these experiences closer to audiences in a more intimate way.
“This story is important because we often don’t talk about how these issues affect us personally,” he says. “We see them in the news, but how do they shape our lives and relationships?”
On challenges, Daramola identifies funding as a major concern, though he notes that partnerships have helped ease the process. He credits collaborations with Immersia and Anthill Studios for supporting the production.
He also points to audience perception around paid shows as another hurdle. According to him, many people are still adjusting to the idea of paying for live theatre experiences.
“People are used to free shows,” he says. “It can be difficult to change that mindset because these productions require significant resources.”
Despite these challenges, Daramola says the production has progressed smoothly and remains focused on its core message. He expresses hope that the play will leave audiences with a renewed sense of optimism about Nigeria.
He adds that the story ultimately emphasises the role of individuals and relationships in shaping broader societal outcomes.
Love is Sweeter Where the Grid Works is scheduled to debut on June 20, 2026.
