This December, the road to Detty December begins at the University of Lagos (UNILAG)! Through its UNILAG in Town initiative, the University is set to open the Detty December season in Lagos with a spectacular staging of Ola Rotimi’s historical play, Kúrunmí, on Friday, December 18, 2026.
Following the success of the University’s inaugural Detty December experience in 2025, which brought together theatre, music and visual art in a celebration of Nigerian culture, UNILAG in Town returns with another compelling cultural experience.
This time, the stage belongs to Kúrunmí, a celebrated historical play by renowned Nigerian playwright, Ola Rotimi, which will be directed by Makinde Adeniran, FTA, President of the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners.
Set against the turbulent history of the old Oyo Empire, the play tells the story of Kúrunmí, the Ààrẹ Ọ̀nà Kakanfọ̀ and ruler of Ijaiye, bringing to the stage a chapter of Nigerian history through dramatic storytelling and live performance.
Scheduled to be staged at the University of Lagos, the production will form the centrepiece of an evening that brings together both performing and visual arts. Audiences can look forward to an experience featuring theatre, live musical performances, dance and an art exhibition, creating an immersive celebration of Nigerian creativity, history and cultural heritage.
The Detty December edition of UNILAG in Town represents a new dimension of the University’s “Gown to Town” initiative. While the initiative began by taking the University’s creative talents beyond the campus to audiences in the city, its Detty December expression brings the city into the University for an evening of culture, creativity and celebration.
The initiative debuted in 2023 with Èṣù and the Vagabond Minstrels and has since presented productions including Love and Colours in Delphi, Mórẹmí Àjàṣorò and Who Is Afraid of Solarin?.
Now, as Lagos prepares for another festive season, UNILAG is inviting audiences to start their Detty December on a historic note.
Come to the University of Lagos on Friday, December 18, 2026 to watch Kúrunmí.
Come with your family and loved ones.
Come for the love of arts and culture!
The stage is being set.
More details about the production and the full Detty December experience will be announced soon. Get ready to buy your tickets!
