Fela

Fela

Fela!

An influential and controversial musician, Fela Kuti was the pioneer of afrobeat music that introduced a new and extravagant style to listeners around the world. His life was defined by these musical choices and by his political outlook, which made him a figure of suspicion in the eyes of the Nigerian government of the time. It is an interesting life story and one that earned rave reviews when it took to the stage in the form of “FELA!” at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre in New York in 2009, going on to receive a Tony Award nomination and critical acclaim.

So it was inevitable that a London transfer would be on the cards and soon audiences in the UK will be able to enjoy the compelling story of Fela Kuti when the show opens at the National Theatre in November, where the Olivier stage will provide the backdrop to an influential artist. The US show features some high profile producers, from Jay-Z to Will and Jada Pinkett Smith, whilst renowned performers like Sahr Ngaujah and Kevin Mambo take on lead roles.

“FELA!” will utilise a range of techniques to get across the story of the famous afrobeat artist, with concert performances, dance moves and musical theatre all getting a look in to tell the story of a rebellious musician. As a result audiences will witness this life story of a man who not only led rebellions against the system and wrote songs that criticised the government, but also led a life of extravagance (he also had many wives).

Actor Sahr Ngaujah appeared in the Broadway version of the show and makes the transition to the London edition. To date he has starred in a number of stage, film and television productions, with the likes of “House of Payne”, “Stomp the Yard” and “The Jailhouse” amongst his credits. He is a Sierra Leonean performer and from an early age has taken on a number of roles in the theatre, not only as an actor, but as a director as well.

Meanwhile, his co-star Kevin Mambo is currently known for his appearance in the American television series “Guiding Light”, for which he has won numerous Emmy Awards, in addition to the likes of “Law and Order: Criminal Intent” and “Cadillac Records”. On Broadway he previously appeared in the show “Fela is a Weapon”, as well as “Once Around the Sun”.

FELA! is on the Olivier stage of the National Theatre from Tuesday 16th November 2010 (previews from Saturday 6th November 2010) to Saturday 4th December 2010.