The Jollof House Party Opera

Co-produced by FIO and Music Theatre Wales

The Jollof House Party Opera is a stunning celebration of West African spiritual harmony. It effortlessly combines musical storytelling, the warmth of communal gathering, and culinary delights. Its roots are deeply embedded in the tradition and preparation of the renowned Jollof rice. The opera invites audiences to experience the flavour and spirit of a true house party – singing and dancing, all set within the grandeur of a restaurant kitchen. It is a pop-up show currently travelling across Wales.

I sensed I was in for a wonderful surprise when I entered the Volcano Theatre in Swansea, and I was not disappointed. I was greeted by the gentle sounds of music drifting through the air like the faint whispers of a distant waterfall, melodies that made me want to sit under a mango tree and dream away in the Yoruba sunshine. The lighting and set design were bold and authentic, with rich textiles and festive banners setting the mood. Then, the hearty laughter of writer and musician Tumi Williams– the original production’s co-creator, who plays Chef Adeola – woke me from my reverie. Like two puppies rolling on the ground on a warm afternoon, Tumi and I discussed the role of Jollof rice in our childhood. As he walked away to change into his costume, my eyes were met by the vibrant Kente fabric surrounding the stage area. Pots, pans, garlic and ginger hung upside down like bats, and aromas drifted through the air. I was excited, watching the theatre transform into a buzzing living room, with groups gathered to experience a small piece of Africa. The seating was arranged like a hollowed-out orange or perhaps a half-smiling moon.

As our hearts danced, Tumi entered, the music commenced, and he dropped a small bag. As he picked it up, he revealed its contents. The audience gasped at the sight of Peppa Pig, probably thinking, ‘What is a piglet doing in a vegan restaurant?’ Then the hip-hop fusion kicked in – catchy tunes that had the audience shaking their heads, as the writer Francis Xavier Mukubi would refer to as ‘a Bantu lizard on a hot afternoon.’ As we danced the afternoon away, like Mami Wata rising from the deepest seas, the heavenly voice of April Koyejo-Audiger carried us into another dimension. Her voice took me to the top of the hills and back again. Musically, The Jollof House Party Opera is a tour de force, fusing classical operatic vocals with hip-hop rhythms, highlife melodies, and traditional percussion. Everything works. The songs and interaction between Chef Adeola and the food inspector deliver power and nuance, moving fluidly between aria and call-and-response. Their chemistry and music are infectious.

At its core, The Jollof House Party Opera tells the story of a working parent navigating life’s challenges, rules, and regulations. The essence of this opera is the community – its involvement, kinship, and celebration of stories from the global majority. It is performed with humour, and there are heartfelt moments. If you attend seeking an answer to the ongoing debate about which African country makes the best Jollof rice, the debate persists.

The narrative explores themes of identity, life’s challenges, and the power of shared meals to unite people. The dialogue is humorous (and I paraphrase): ‘This is not cow’s milk, but from a woman’s breast, a willing volunteer.’ It is sprinkled with witty one-liners and cultural references that resonate with African and international audiences, including the call to return to Grandma’s kitchen and research Grandma’s recipe.

A memorable moment was the interaction between Chef Adeola and the audience. One of the show’s innovative features is the interactive dining experience. By the end, we were served portions of Jollof rice, transforming the evening into a multisensory feast. This distinctive approach turned us into active participants, blurring the line between performer and guest.

The Jollof House Party Opera is more than just a performance; it provides an immersive experience. It honours tradition while pushing creative boundaries, offering audiences a joyful and unifying evening. Whether you’re an opera enthusiast, interested in West African culture, or simply seeking something lively and fresh, this show is unmissable. By the end, I saw the audience tapping their feet and swaying in their seats. I have never been to a house party, but after experiencing this opera, I don’t need to. It has been ticked off my bucket list.

Thanks to FIO and Music Theatre Wales for this fantastic production, and to Tumi Williams and April Koyejo-Audiger. I applaud your efforts to showcase talents within our community, and the Volcano Theatre for its innovative approach. The Jollof House Party Opera was a triumph: a vibrant, heartfelt tribute to the power of food, music, and community.

FIO: The Jollof House Party Opera: https://www.wearefio.org.uk/thehouseofjollofopera

Eric Ngalle Charles

Eric Ngalle is a poet, playwright and author.