KININSO Koncepts Elevates African Storytelling at CANEX WKND

Yinka Olatunbosun

This October, the Lagos-based theatre company KININSO Koncepts brings its latest theatre production, ‘King of My Heart,’ to the international stage at CANEX WKND 2024 in Algiers, Algeria on October 17, 2024. A dance drama, ‘King of My Heart’ would be performed for the first time. Choreographed by Uche Onah, the production is written and directed by Joshua Alabi, the internationally acclaimed CEO and Creative Director of Kininso Koncepts.

‘King of My Heart’ seamlessly blends the timeless themes of love, tradition, and cultural identity. The production draws on the love story of two individuals as a powerful metaphor for unity and togetherness, reflecting the beauty of Africa—its traditions, values, and deep-rooted connection to family and heritage. The cast comprises extraordinary talents like Simileoluwa Hassan, Uche Onah, Oluchi Odii, Loveth Ndubueze and Eniola Salako.

Each actor brings to life the essence of African womanhood, motherhood, and love, their performances leaving an indelible mark on the audience. The ingenuity of the cast is matched by the expertise of the technical crew. Produced by Angela Peters, the show’s seamless blend of multimedia projection, music, and choreography owes much to the behind-the-scenes brilliance of Edgar Eriakha, Stanley Okeke, Qoyyum Areoye, Bunmi Awolowo, Aniefiok Inyang, Yemi Adeojo, Oloyede Aribilola, Chinenye Chukwudi, Adaeze David, Rosemary Ayodele, Praise Alabi, Zayn Awaiye, Ihenyen Caleb, and Blessing Okunlola. The team meticulously creates a world where love and tradition harmoniously coexist, immersing the audience in a visually stunning and emotionally engaging experience.

Hundreds of creatives from across Africa will converge, representing diverse sectors such as music, fashion, performing arts, and film would be in attendance.

Reflecting on the looming production and its broader significance, Joshua Alabi, says: “Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of working across Europe, and this collaboration with CANEX marks a deliberate step in our plan to reintegrate ourselves within the African continent. We see this partnership as a key opportunity to connect with other cultural, creative, and arts organizations within Africa to further develop the continent’s creative industries.”

For Kininso Koncepts, this performance reflects the broader mission to foster artistic collaboration across the African creative landscape. Anchored in cultural exchange and artistic growth, Kininso actively builds bridges with artists and organizations throughout Africa, leveraging their Lagos hub as a catalyst for creative development and innovation.

As the company gears up for this milestone at CANEX WKND, ‘King of My Heart’ serves as a reminder of the power and importance of African stories, told by African voices, to influence and inspire both local and global audiences. And with more collaborations and projects on the horizon, Kininso Koncepts continues to push the boundaries of African theatre, establishing itself as a leading force in shaping the future of African storytelling.