The Lion and the Jewel

The Lion and the Jewel, directed by Lola Taiwo, is a vibrant clash of tradition and modernity set in rural Nigeria. Through the rivalry between Baroka, the cunning village chief, and Lakunle, a Westernized schoolteacher, the play explores themes of cultural identity, gender dynamics, and power. Sidi, the beautiful “Jewel,” navigates their competing visions with wit and agency, challenging assumptions about progress and patriarchy. Rich in Yoruba performance traditions - dance, mime, and music - the play critiques colonial influence while celebrating indigenous resilience, ultimately suggesting that true empowerment lies in understanding, not erasing, one’s cultural roots.

Nobel Literary Prize recipient Wole Soyinka’s play fuses biting satire with vivid folklore and pageantry, capturing the tension between tradition and modernity through unforgettable characters and humour.

• Performances: February 19-21, 2026
  King Street Theatre, Fort McMurray
• Doors open: 7:00 pm
• Show starts: 7:30 pm

How to find King Street Theatre

• Located inside Fort McMurray Composite High School (9803 King Street, downtown)
• Park in the school parking lot
• Enter through the main entrance of the school
• Please wear shoe covers provided
• Follow signs to King Street Theatre

• Rated PG for mature situations
• Approximate run-time: 90 minutes
• No intermission

Tickets

Thursday

Regular - $20
Discounted* - $15

Friday & Saturday

Regular - $25
Discounted* - $20

*Discounted tickets are available to SRE Monthly Donors, seniors, Elders, students, veterans, and anyone experiencing economic barriers. 10 discounted tickets available per performance.