Friends, Family Gather in Lagos for ‘Madu’ Documentary Screening

‘Madu,’ the Disney original documentary about young male ballet dancer Anthony Madu, whose viral clip in 2020 earned him a scholarship at Elmhurst Ballet School in the U.K., was recently screened in Lagos to friends and family.

The 15-year-old Madu, who left Nigeria in 2021, attended the screening alongside his parents, siblings and friends.

Directed by Oscar nominee Matt Ogens and award-winning Nigerian filmmaker Joel ‘Kachi Benson, the over-hour-long film chronicles Madu’s journey from his home in Ajangbadi, Lagos, to the U.K. The narrative captures both the high and low moments of Madu’s ballet journey—from the joyous celebration of his scholarship to the heartbreaking moments of leaving his family behind. Despite challenges, Madu remains steadfast in his dream, refusing to give up even when his vision seems out of reach.

The film also explores the cultural shocks of adapting to a new environment, such as Madu’s fluent British accent, which often surprises his parents and siblings. In one scene, they ask him how he adopted the accent and if he can still speak his native dialect.

“I don’t even speak Igbo before,” he responds.

‘Madu’ is heartwarming in its tale of dreams and resilience, capturing emotional moments like his anger outburst during a visit to Nigeria, his first attempt to ask a girl out, his debut stage performance watched online by his parents, and funny moments with friends during bedtime routines or amusement park rides.

For Benson, ‘Madu’ is an inspiring tale.  “We saw him as any random kid walking in the streets of Ajangbadi and now we see him transform into this young posh man. It happened right before our eyes. It really just showed the power of pursuing one’s dreams,” he said.

“He is attending one of the oldest ballet schools in the U.K. He pushed himself even though he wasn’t in the best environment, but he kept pushing himself. He has that passion and he chose to pursue it at a very young age. His story exemplifies the can-do attitude Nigerians are known for.  His story is the story of millions of young Nigerians who are pursuing their dreams in different ways, in spite of the challenges that we face.”

The screening, which earlier premiered in Nigeria at the i-Represent International Documentary Film Festival (iREP), was the first time Madu’s parents, featured in the film, saw it.

“I’m so proud of him. He has really made us proud such that people now call me Mama Ballet,” enthused his mother, Ifeoma.

For Madu, the experience has been amazing.

“Going to the U.K. was quite a big shock. The weather is different, and leaving my family behind was a big challenge. I found myself embraced by the dance community.”

He also spoke about managing his emotions during low times. “I either hang out with my friend’s sister or call my mother. Just talking to someone about it helps me navigate the challenge. It really makes the burden feel a little less.”

Madu’s ultimate message to young people through the film is to always follow their dreams.

‘Madu’ is available on Disney+.