By Omeje Ogechi Joy
Nigeria has a rich cultural legacy that goes beyond its geographical origins. It would not be an overstatement to say that Nigeria is a culturally diverse country. Cultural exposition has always been impressive, whether in the North, South, or West, but it still needs to be better organized and promoted. The shared cultural values of the country are remarkably interconnected, despite the existence of numerous tribes.
Emotions stimulate imaginations, and create memorable experiences, Entertainment has cultural and social dimensions it reflects and shapes cultural values, norms, and trends, serving as a reflection of society’s aspirations, concerns, and collective imagination.
It is easy to say that culture plays an important role in the boost of our entertainment industry, which have been witnessed over the years, through storytelling, visual aesthetics, music performances, or interactive experiences, through the following entertainment aims to evoke emotions, stimulate imaginations, and create long lasting memorable experiences.
The 2022 Yoruba language Nigerian historical drama “Elesin Oba,” which is based on actual events that occurred in Oyo, Nigeria, in 1943 at the height of World War II, serves as an illustration of this. Because the drama was based on true life events, the film, which was adapted from Wole Soyinka’s stage play “Death And The King’s Horseman,” brought back memories of the customs of Oyo culture. Aside from reminding and recognizing the practised culture and beliefs, the movie was able to achieve the promotion of Yoruba tradition. “Elesin Oba” served as a source of entertainment, captivating the people’s minds with pleasure while showcasing the significance beneath the Yoruba land’s beliefs and culture
The entertainment industry has effectively combined our culture and way of life to shape the enjoyment we look for in entertainment, Because of the variety of creativity ingrained in our culture, I have not only noticed how distinctive Nigerian culture is, but I have also learned that it is crucial in forming the dynamic and significant entertainment sector.
For artists, musicians, and filmmakers, the rich and varied cultural legacy is a source of inspiration that results in the production of distinctive and engrossing entertainment content.
The incorporation of traditional dance, music, and storytelling into a variety of artistic mediums is one important way that culture influences entertainment. Traditional folklore, sayings, and oral traditions serve as sources of inspiration for musicians and artists, who then incorporate these cultural elements into their performances. In addition to preserving Nigeria’s legacy, this integration of cultural components appeals to viewers around the world, giving our entertainment sector a feeling of legitimacy and dependability.
The Niyifagbemi’s recently released short film, which is based on the Ojude Oba festival, is another example of a narrative that combines entertainment with culture. “Ojude Oba,” which translates to “The king’s frontage,” is a cultural celebration of the Ijebu people that served as the inspiration for the short film. The annual celebration serves the function of honoring the land’s Oba. The entire Yoruba culture is depicted in the film, from the traditional group performance of dance, music, and drumming to the many costumes, such as lace and Aso-oke, and the drums, horses, and dane weapons used during the celebration. It depicts nothing but the entire totality of our way of life in creating our pleasure.
The entertainment industry draws inspiration and content from cultural festivals and festivities. In addition to being observed locally, festivals like the Durbar festival in the north, the Eyo festival in Lagos, and the New Yam festival (Iri Ji) in the southeast have been included in stage productions, movies, and music videos. Both domestic and foreign audiences are captivated and entertained by these cultural events, which offer a visual spectacle and a greater understanding of Nigerian customs.
Nigeria’s natural way of life has surely made music, movies, and fashion incredibly popular, which has been a dream come true for the country’s entertainment industry for the entertainment sector, our culture is a constant source of inspiration
It is simple to conclude that culture has contributed significantly to the growth of our entertainment sector over the years. Entertainment seeks to arouse feelings, spark imaginations, and produce unforgettable experiences, whether through narrative, visual appeal or musical performances.
