Homecoming (2021 play)

Homecoming is a stage play written by Nigerian playwright Chetachi Igbokwe. Premiered on 6 May 2021 at the New Arts Theatre, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, the play was directed by Ugochukwu Victor Ugwu and produced by the Maestro Theatre. It explores themes of tragedy, familial bonds, and cultural heritage, drawing on the Igbo folklore and blending comic and tragic elements to create a compelling narrative.

Homecoming
Written by	Chetachi Igbokwe
Directed by	Ugochukwu Victor Ugwu
Music by	Ugochukwu Dansey Uboh
Choreography	Kosi Ejikeme Aina Adebola Chimaobi Okolo Lorenzo Menakaya Chudi Mike Simon Ebuka Ugwu Oyindamola Adesunloye
Characters	Nwakibe Echeruo Adannaya Echeruo Nebeolisa Mr. Writer/Johnson Ahumaraeze
Date premiered	May 6, 2021 (2021-05-06)
Place premiered	New Arts Theatre, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Original language	English, Igbo
Genre	Tragedy, Drama
Setting	The Echeruo household, Native shrine

Plot

The plot centers on Nwakibe Echeruo (played by Kosiso Ejikeme), who is deeply affected by the disappearance of his son Nebeolisa. The search for answers dominates his life, while his wife Adannaya Echeruo (portrayed by Aina Adebola) faces her own grief. The narrative explores Adannaya's psychological distress and Nwakibe's determined search, which intersects with Mr. Writer/Johnson (played by Chimaobi Okolo), a writer who offers cryptic advice, and Ahumaraeze (portrayed by Simon Ebuka Ugwu), a diviner knowledgeable in Igbo traditions. Their interactions lead Nwakibe on a path of conflict and self-reflection, resulting in unexpected revelations.

Characters

• Nwakibe Echeruo – The protagonist, portrayed by Kosi Ejikeme, an old man seeking his lost son.
• Adannaya Echeruo – Nwakibe's wife, played by Aina Adebola, who is driven to madness by grief.
• Nebeolisa – Nwakibe and Adannaya's missing son.
• Mr. Writer/Johnson – A character who prides himself over Nwakibe's situation, played by Chimaobi Okolo.
• Ahumaraeze – A diviner who speaks for the deity Ogwugwu, played by Simon Ebuka Ugwu.

Themes and analysis

The play delves into the complexities of human emotions and cultural expectations. It raises questions about the nature of tragedy and the essence of "craft" in storytelling. Igbokwe's mastery in blending tragic and comic elements is evident, as the audience experiences a range of emotions, from laughter to sorrow, often simultaneously.

Nwakibe's character embodies the traditional tragic hero, whose personal flaws and societal pressures lead to his downfall. His internal struggle and ultimate failure highlight the inevitability of fate, a common theme in classical tragedies. Adannaya's descent into madness reflects societal attitudes towards mental health. Her condition, exacerbated by the loss of her son, is largely ignored by those around her, symbolising the stigma and neglect often associated with mental health issues in society. The play's use of Igbo language and folklore enriches its narrative, providing a cultural context that resonates with the audience. The character's dialogues and the play's setting offer a glimpse into the traditions and values of the Igbo people.

Critical reception

Homecoming received critical acclaim for its well-developed characters, relatable dialogue, and effective use of theatrical elements. Reviewers praised the play's deft blend of humour and tragedy, finding it both entertaining and thought-provoking. Sima Essien, writing for The Nation Newspaper, commended the play's ability to "[capture] for us the tragic notion of the certainties we trust falling apart to fracture our dreams into unimaginable nightmares". Essien lauded the performances, particularly Kosiso Ejikeme's portrayal of Nwakibe, who was described as "a formidable presence onstage, and arguably the very soul and heartbeat of the entire story". The production's use of theatrical effects also garnered praise. The set design and lighting were lauded for their ability to create a powerful and immersive atmosphere, shifting between the familiar comfort of Nwakibe's home and the unsettling ambience of a traditional shrine. The use of music and a chorus was commended for adding emotional depth and highlighting the play's themes of loss and redemption.

Iheoma J. Uzomba, writing for AfreecanRead.com, described the play as "helplessly [involving]," drawing audiences into the characters' struggles. She emphasised how Igbokwe effectively evokes both pity and fear, fulfilling the Aristotelian tragic experience. She lauded Igbokwe's "mastery of twisting plots and gradually unfurling resolutions." She admired the play's meticulously crafted characters and "delightful dialogues."

Sharon O. Okey-Onyema, writing for Arts Lounge Magazine, highlighted the play's ability to "[dig] out a certain emotion" in viewers. She commended how Homecoming fulfills the requirements of tragedy by generating feelings of pity and fear in the audience. She hailed the play as a "work of art" that adheres to aesthetic principles and sparks meaningful discussions.

Darlington Chibueze Anuonye and Anthony Chibueze Ukwuoma, writing for This Day focused on the portrayal of grief and loss in their review. They commended Igbokwe's insightful and empathetic depiction of these experiences.