This September marked the 25th year anniversary of Iroko Theatre Company. Iroko was founded by Newham resident Alex Oma-Pius, a trained actor and director who studied at The National Academy for Theatre and Film Arts.

Alex, who has previously worked with the BBC and The Royal Shakespeare Company started Iroko Theatre Company in 1996 to spread awareness of, and appreciation for African culture, a reality that is still very much needed in 2021.

Based in Stratford, Iroko delivers classes, workshops and exhibitions across Newham, London and England as well as providing volunteering opportunities for young people and educational training for teachers and those wishing to pursue a career in the arts.

Iroko activities concentrate on uplifting their participants’ health, knowledge and well-being, regardless of race, age or background through the edutainment* of stories, drawing, drums, dance and singing. Halima, aged ten attended Iroko’s Speaking Without Voices workshop and exhibition at Stratford library and said of the event “It was very enjoyable and I would definitely join in again.”

Previous projects have included: The Magic of Rhythm, which supported homeless and vulnerably housed people in Newham using creative arts; Our Shared Heritage project which focused on connecting cultures through stories, objects and artefacts; and their Forever Young project, which enhances the skills and wellbeing of older London residents using fun and gentle creative art activities.

This year Iroko Theatre Company have provided creative outlets for NHS staff, helping them to combat the stresses of having had to face so many additional challenges due to Covid. Iroko Theatre Company provides a number of free learning resources and information on their past, current and future projects on their website and social media accounts Twitter, Facebook, Youtube and Instagram.

*edutainment is a mix of education fused with entertainment.

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