Ottawa StoryTellers' Signature Series

Sunday, February 23, 2025, 2:00 pm ET | Blackbox Studio, Arts Court and On Demand

Explore Nigeria’s untold legends, where ancient myths, long whispered by griots and elders, are brought back to life. From the origins of the Nigerian people to the captivating folktales, these stories reveal the triumphs and struggles of legendary figures and clever creatures that have shaped Nigeria’s cultural legacy. Meet the wise earth mother Ala, the mighty Amadioha, and the clever tortoise who outwits them all. These tales do more than entertain—they offer timeless lessons of strength, wisdom, and perseverance, deeply connected to the broader narrative of Black history and identity.

With storytellers Uchechi Ogbonna and Alaukwu Anozie, accompanied by live music and vibrant visuals inspired by Nigeria’s traditional art, this performance celebrates African storytelling and its profound influence on the global Black experience.

About the Storytellers:

Alaukwu Anozie first fell in love with stories when he was four years old, hearing folk tales and reading fairytales with his father and late Grandfather. Now, as a Grad Student, he merges his love for all things stories with his academic pursuits, investigating how the stories we hear and tell influence us every day. Alaukwu stumbled upon the Ottawa Storytellers two years ago and was so excited that the group existed he's rumoured to have let out a squeal after attending for the first time. He took the Signature Series stage in 2024 as part Stories by Golden Age Crime Queen Margery Allingham. Aside from procrastination, his hobbies include reading, writing, cooking, and daydreaming (mostly about an illustrious professional soccer career). He adores stories that encapsulate the ups and downs of life and reminds us that every day is a gift.

Uchechi Ogbonna a vibrant Nigerian storyteller, brings captivating Nigerian folktales to life, blending entertainment with education. As a recipient of the Ottawa Stories in 180 grant, she has performed at notable events such as Embers meeting (Scouts Canada), One World Grannies event, World Storytelling Day, Odyssey Theatre, amongst others. Her diverse work includes a play featured at Algonquin Hothouse 2023 and documentaries on breastfeeding challenges and the Spartan Race. Driven by a passion for promoting Nigerian narratives in Ottawa and beyond, Uchechi's storytelling creates a bridge to Nigeria and back, enriching the community with engaging, relatable stories.