The Lagos International Theatre Festival (LITF) will return for its 2026 edition from November 14 to 15 at the MUSON Centre, Lagos, featuring theatrical productions from Nigeria and other parts of the world.
The festival, which reportedly attracts more than 25,000 attendees across its programme, will be held under the theme, “The Masks We Wear,” alongside the statement, “The Stage Is Everywhere.”
The founder of LITF, Bolanle Austen-Peters, said the theme was designed to encourage audiences to reflect on the different roles and identities people assume in their daily lives.
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“The Masks We Wear is a theme that speaks to all of us. We all play different roles in our lives, and theatre allows us to examine those roles, question them, and perhaps see ourselves differently,” Austen-Peters explained.
She noted that the theme also invited audiences to view theatre beyond the traditional stage.
The 2026 edition will feature artists and productions from Nigeria, Kenya, Canada and Brazil.
An international highlight of the festival will be Under The Mango Tree by Grand Theatre, Canada, directed by Lynette Randall. Productions from Kenya and Brazil will also form part of the international programme.
The festival will also spotlight emerging theatre makers, featuring productions from Atlantic Hall, Evergreen College and Children International School, alongside professional and independent works.
The activities will begin ahead of the main festival weekend with a series of programmes across Lagos.
On November 9, “Theatre Meets Food,” hosted by chef and entrepreneur Hilda Baci, will bring together artists, partners, cultural leaders and members of the creative community for an evening combining food, theatre and conversation.
This will be followed by Embassy Nights on November 10 and 11, which will foster cultural exchange among diplomats, artists and leaders in the creative industry.
On November 12, Conversations and Culture will feature masterclasses and discussions on issues including mental health and wellness, vocal performance, DJing and copyright, as well as other subjects affecting the creative industries.
The programme will conclude with an Opening Night Gala on November 13, ahead of the main festival on November 14 and 15.
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