The Greater the Honour, the Deeper the Shame
In British-occupied Nigeria, a Yoruba king, the Alafin, has died, and it is the duty of his horseman, Elesin, to accompany him into the afterlife. While lustily enjoying the pleasures of this world, Elesin proudly anticipates his transition to the next – but the sacred ritual is interrupted, resulting in unforeseen tragedy. Inspired by a real-life incident, this masterpiece from Nobel Prize winner Soyinka celebrates a community striving to uphold its culture in the face of colonial power.

Anthony Santiago
Elesin

Amaka Umeh
Praise-Singer

Graham Abbey
Simon Pilkings

Kwaku Adu-Poku
Olunde

Akosua Amo-Adem
Iyaloja

Maev Beaty
Jane Pilkings

Josue Laboucane
The Prince
Pulga Muchochoma
Joseph/Drummer
Ngabo Nabea
Sergeant Amusa

Bola Aiyeola
Adedoja
Celia Aloma
Olabisi
Isi Bhakhomen
Omosalewa

Déjah Dixon-Green
Apinke
Ijeoma Emesowum
Ariyike
Rachel Jones
Companion to the Resident