By Azuka Ogujiuba
In 2018, the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria, confirmed that, at least, 14.3 million Nigerians were into drug abuse. The statistics showed that the large demographic involved in drug use and abuse was between 15 and 64 years old. One in seven persons had used a drug. Among every four drug users, one is a woman. And about 4.6 million Nigerians had used drugs for non-medical purposes. Such stunning statistics is why High was not just an average theatrical stage play, but a platform to create awareness and educate the society on drug abuse and its effects.
Set in modern day Nigeria, High follows the journey of teenage friends back for holidays from their respective boarding schools. Being close to each other and having relationships that have taken years to build, they discover that one of them suffers from drug abuse which eventually led to an overdose. It causes a rift within their clique. Their parents get to learn of the situation; facing the truth about their children and the killer that is drug abuse.
The play which was set in Muson Centre, Onikan in Lagos, Nigeria, on the 13th and 14th of April, 2019 was executive produced by CEO/Founder of Rue14 Studios, Keke Hammond. It saw the COO of MTN Nigeria, Mr. Mazen Mroue, Ik Osakioduwa, Adebola Williams, Tosin Durotoye, Adeolu Adefarasin in attendance amongst parents and teenagers.
“Brilliant acting, on a heartbreaking subject. Say no to drugs.” A raving review from Her Excellency and Founder-President of Wellbeing Foundation, Toyin Saraki, who was, also, in attendance.
“Kudos to the Keke and the Rue14 crew. The message is really strong- from the role of the parent to the responsibility of the child. We shouldn’t let our children consume and learn alone from their friends. As a parent, you need to spend time with them to filter and engage,” counseled Debola Williams
High was supported by MTN, Union Bank, Performing Arts Workshop and Studios, Savvie, Desire 1709, 24 Apparel, House of Irawo, Zrim Couture, Femy Toys, TDA Couture, Garment Care, Shop Taymib and TOSFA.
With media partners: FlyTime TV, Rhythm FM, Accelerate TV, YNaija, Smooth FM, City FM, TVC, Business Day, Vanguard, Guardian Life, Pulse, Genevieve Magazine, New Mums Hub, and Lagos Mums
