The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives Revival at Arclola Theatre
Arcola Theatre will present the return of The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives, a captivating Nigerian tale of marital power dynamics and sexual politics. Based on the bestselling novel by Lola Shoneyin and adapted by Rotimi Babatunde, this compelling drama explores family gender dynamics, tradition, and modern-day struggles in Nigeria. Directed by Femi Elufowoju jr, the production runs from 26th April to 31st May 2025, with the press night scheduled for Wednesday, 30th April at 7.30pm.
About The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives
Set in modern-day Nigeria, The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives tells the scandalous tale of Baba Segi, a wealthy man with three wives and seven children. The patriarch’s seemingly perfect family begins to unravel when Bolanle, a young university graduate, enters the household. Despite her intelligence and awareness of life’s struggles, Bolanle unwittingly uncovers a secret that threatens to destroy Baba Segi’s patriarchal household. The conflict between tradition and contemporary values creates intricate gender dynamics that expose the cracks within the family.
Director Femi Elufowoju jr Returns to Arcola Theatre
After the play’s hit 2018 UK premiere, director Femi Elufowoju jr returns to Arcola Theatre to helm the production once again. Elufowoju jr, the founding artistic director of tiata fahodzi, the UK's leading British African heritage contemporary theatre company, is renowned for his thought-provoking works. His previous productions at Arcola Theatre include Hoard (2019), The Glass Menagerie (2019), and The Book of Grace (2024). Elufowoju jr also directed Verdi’s Rigoletto for Opera North in 2022.
An Adaptation Featuring Live Yoruba Music, Songs, and Dance
This autobiographical drama features a multi-talented African ensemble and incorporates live Yoruba music, songs, and dance, creating an immersive experience for the audience. The adaptation by Rotimi Babatunde, a Caine Award-winning playwright, brings the complexities of family, identity, and power to the forefront.
Critical Acclaim
The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives has garnered widespread critical praise, with The Guardian calling it “nothing short of spectacular.” This darkly comic and deeply poignant production delves into complex family structures, offering a unique and engaging exploration of gender politics, power dynamics, and the impact of secrets within a family.
Tickets and More Information
Dates: 26th April – 31st May 2025
Press Night: 30th April 2025
Running Time: 130 mins (including interval)
Age Guidance: 18+
Venue: Arcola Theatre, East London
Ticket Information: Arcola Theatre offers affordable ticket prices, with a pay-what-you-can scheme every Tuesday to ensure accessibility for all audiences.
For more information, tickets, and to stay updated, visit Arcola Theatre.
Arcola Theatre – Championing Diversity and Sustainability
Known for its pioneering environmental initiatives, Arcola Theatre aims to become the world’s first carbon-neutral theatre. The venue has received accolades for its work, including the UK Theatre Award for Promotion of Diversity, The Stage Award for Sustainability, and the Peter Brook Empty Space Award. With a commitment to diverse and innovative productions, Arcola remains a key player in London’s theatre scene.
