Inua Ellams's "Once Upon A Time In Sokoto" Explores Intra-African Slavery

Inua Ellams's latest theatrical production, "Once Upon A Time In Sokoto," offers an exuberant and educational exploration of intra-African slavery. The play, which premiered at the Royal and Derngate in Northampton and is scheduled to tour the United Kingdom until October 10, continues Ellams's established practice of transforming complex historical and social topics into engaging theatre. This approach was notably demonstrated in his earlier works such as "Barber Shop Chronicles," which used the setting of a barbershop to deliver insightful commentary on masculinity and politics in modern Nigeria. "The Half God of Rainfall" also delved into postcolonial Nigerian themes, albeit with a mythological detour to Mount Olympus. Ellams further showcased his structural ingenuity by relocating Chekhov's "Three Sisters" to 1960s Africa, highlighting the societal disruptions caused by British imperial rule, specifically referencing Lord Lugard's actions in uniting diverse cultures within the playwright's birth nation. "Once Upon A Time In Sokoto" appears to follow this pattern, tackling the often-overlooked history of slavery that occurred between African peoples before European involvement. Ellams, known for his "Stoppardian or Fraynian relish," employs theatrical devices to make profound subjects accessible and enjoyable for audiences. The play's presentation at the Royal and Derngate in Northampton serves as a launchpad for its subsequent tour, indicating a significant theatrical undertaking. Fuel Theatre is listed as a project partner, suggesting their involvement in the production and touring logistics. The play's focus on intra-African slavery aims to shed light on a critical, yet frequently marginalized, aspect of history, presenting it through Ellams's distinctive narrative and dramatic style. The Guardian's review highlights the play's success in delivering an "exuberant history lesson," underscoring its educational value alongside its artistic merit. The production's journey from Northampton to various other venues across the UK signifies its ambition to reach a broad audience with this important historical narrative. Ellams's body of work consistently demonstrates a commitment to engaging with Nigerian and broader African contexts, using theatre as a medium for both entertainment and critical discourse. "Once Upon A Time In Sokoto" is poised to be another significant contribution to this oeuvre, inviting audiences to confront and understand a complex historical phenomenon through compelling storytelling and performance.