How Orisanmi Chose His Head

A Yoruba tale from Nigeria adapted for the stage and directed
by Nefertiti Burton.

Performed by the Repertory Company of the University of Louisville’s Department of Theatre Arts

In this half-hour theatrical presentation, four actors transform into traditional Yoruba characters to perform a coming of age story. Through storytelling, ritual, music, dance and song, they enact the story of three young spirits who undertake the journey to be born on earth as human beings. The story reveals the traditional Yoruba values of patience, humility, respect for parents, and courtesy to others. Each performance is followed by a talk-back with the actors.

This production is available from November 5th 2004
through April 30th, 2005

A study guide created by Michelle McElwaine is supplied to teachers in preparation for viewing the performance.
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TO BOOK A FREE PERFORMANCE CONTACT
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JOY MEEKS
DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE ARTS
UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE
502-852-5922
JOY.MEEKS@LOUISVILLE.EDU
From left, Nyoka Boswell, April Spears, Laura Early,and Pacey Walker performing How Orisanmi Chose His Head at St. Matthews Elementary School
Nyoka Boswell (left) as Oriseeku and April Spears as Orisanmi
Pacey Walker, as a diviner and healer gives advice to Oriseeku, played by Nyoka Boswell.
April Spears as Orisanmi shows The Gatekeeper, played by Laura Early, the use of salt.
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