Ibadan, Feb. 28, 2026 (NAN) A stage actor, Babatunde Ojobaro, has called for deliberate efforts to revive the young people’s dwindling interest in stage theatre, amid Nollywood’s rising popularity.
Ojobaro told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Saturday that the representation of young people in stage theatre was not as strong as expected.
He said that while he had no official statistics, he could say from his experience as a producer and director that more young people lacked enthusiasm for stage acting.
“Nollywood and the broader entertainment industry have become major magnets for young people.
“This generation wants visibility. They want to ‘blow’. They want to ‘hammer’.
“Nollywood appears to offer a faster route to fame and financial success.
“Social media has amplified this perception, as we constantly see red carpets, endorsements, premieres, and celebrity lifestyles online.
“The screen feels more accessible and commercially rewarding.
“So, naturally, many young creatives gravitate toward what seems like the quicker and more glamorous path,” he said.
Ojobaro admitted that there was a significant difference between the payments of Nollywood and stage actors.
“Nollywood actors generally earn more because film and television are more commercially viable.
“Screen productions have wider distribution; cinemas, streaming platforms, television, and international markets.
“All these create multiple revenue streams.
“Stage productions, however, are limited by venue capacity and ticket sales.
“Theatre is powerful artistically, but commercially, it operates on a smaller scale compared to film,” he said.
To stir the younger generation’s interest, Ojobaro called for actions to make theatre visible and relevant again.
“Young Nigerians connect with stories that reflect their everyday realities, conversations around ‘Japa,’ fuel scarcity, relationships, political frustrations, and digital life.
“When theatre speaks their language, they listen.
“Secondly, marketing must evolve. Theatre cannot depend solely on traditional promotion.
“We need strong social media presence, engaging trailers, campus tours, influencer collaborations, and behind-the-scenes content that makes theatre feel exciting and current.
“Accessibility is key.
“Student-friendly ticket pricing, campus performances, and community shows can help bring theatre closer to young people instead of waiting for them to come to us,” he said.
According to him, theatre shouldn’t compete with digital culture; rather, it should creatively collaborate with it.
However, the stage actor urged aspiring stage actors to respect the process.
“Theatre demands discipline. There are no second takes on stage, and this pressure builds excellence.
“Don’t enter the theatre simply because you want to ‘blow’; enter it to grow.
“Many of the strongest screen actors today were refined on stage.
“Theatre sharpens craft, confidence, and emotional intelligence.
“To young Nigerians, success in the arts is rarely instant.
“Social media shows quick fame, but sustainable careers are built on skill.
“Invest in voice training, movement, script analysis, volunteer, audition, and learn from mentors.
“Talent may open the door, but discipline and humility will keep you in the room,” he said. (NAN)
