The main auditorium of the University of Lagos came alive with Look Back in Gratitude, a Nigerian adaptation of John Osborne’s iconic play Look Back in Anger.
Reimagined by playwright Bosede Ademilua-Afolayan, the performance offered a compelling exploration of love, betrayal, and class tensions, recontextualized within a contemporary Nigerian setting.
Directed by Balogun Abiola and produced by Omobolanle Akanbi, the production resonated deeply with its audience, as it examined the emotional and societal fractures that define everyday relationships.
The cast—Daniel Idiabor, Apoeso Oyindamola, Toyin Okedara, Bankole Oluwatosin, Kingsley Onuoha, and Ajayi Feranmi—delivered emotionally layered performances.
Oyindamola captivated the audience with a portrayal marked by vulnerability and resilience, while Daniel’s interpretation of a frustrated character was notable for its simmering, controlled intensity.
Balogun Abiola’s direction was both measured and emotionally charged, guiding the ensemble with a subtlety that allowed the play’s themes to unfold organically.
His approach managed to retain the essence of Osborne’s original while offering sharp commentary on contemporary Nigerian realities.
The production’s success was anchored by the efforts of producer Omobolanle Akanbi, who played a central role in steering the project from concept to execution.
Responsible for assembling the creative team, managing logistics, and securing essential resources, Omobolanle’s behind-the-scenes leadership was instrumental.
His artistic vision encouraged seamless collaboration among cast and crew, and the production’s coherence and polish were a clear reflection of his commitment to excellence in theatre.
Visually, the play embraced a minimalist set design, reinforcing the emotional distance and socioeconomic strain between characters. The deliberate sparseness focused attention on performance and dialogue, while lighting shifts punctuated moments of dramatic tension. The restrained use of sound, leaning into silence and ambient noise, enhanced the play’s intensity, allowing its emotional undercurrents to resonate more profoundly.
