The National Theatre, Lagos, will host a large-scale children’s musical theatre production titled “I Wish I Wish: Battle of The Winds” as part of activities marking the 2026 Children’s Day celebration.

The production, created by children’s theatre company, Proud African Roots, is scheduled to be held on May 30 at the main bowl of the National Theatre, with the two shows expected to attract a combined audience of 6,000.

According to a statement made available on Monday, the musical theatre performance is centred on African mythology, original music and immersive stagecraft designed for children, families and undergraduates.

Set in a fantasy world inspired by African storytelling traditions, the production follows mythical characters led by Grandma Wura, a storyteller who guides children through a battle between the forces of nature.

The organisers said the production would feature “VFX-quality makeup and costumes, an original live score, and set design that transforms the main bowl into a fully realised theatrical universe.”

The statement noted that the event marked a significant milestone for children’s performing arts in Nigeria, adding that Proud African Roots previously staged four performances for an audience of 1,200 in 2025.

Speaking on the production, the General Manager/Chief Executive Officer of the National Theatre, Mrs Tola Akerele, said the initiative aligned with efforts to promote cultural identity among Nigerian children.

“When we talk about building the next generation of Nigerians who value their own culture, we have to start with the experiences we give them as children. This production represents exactly the kind of work this venue was built for,” she said.

Akerele added that the National Theatre remained committed to exposing children to culturally rooted creative experiences.

“The National Theatre should be a place where a child walks in and discovers something about who they are and where they come from. *I Wish I Wish* does that with a level of ambition and craft that we are proud to be associated with.

“I want every parent, every school, and every child who walks through these doors on May 30 to feel that something important is happening here,” she added.

The organisers stated that the production was aimed at demonstrating that world-class children’s entertainment could be locally produced while remaining rooted in African stories and culture. (PUNCH)

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