GEDS presents Wole Soyinka's "The Lion and the Jewel" 10-14 November
A classic work of Nigerian literature by Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka that fuses modern and traditional elements of storytelling, song and dance.
GEDS2026
Join the Geneva English Drama Society in Coppet for this classic satire of the conflict between traditional values and modernity in post-colonial Nigeria by the acclaimed author Wole Soyinka.
Young, beautiful Sidi is the 'jewel' of her village. After her photos are published in a western magazine, she is torn between two proposals of marriage: from Lakunle, a young schoolteacher who embraces Western culture, and the cunning, traditional village chief Baroka.
DATES: Tuesday 10 to Saturday 14 November 2026
TIMES: Tuesday to Friday 19:30, Saturday 19:00
VENUE: Théâtre de Terre Sainte, Coppet
TICKETS and INFORMATION: www.geds.ch
PRICE: CHF 25 & CHF 35
ABOUT THE SHOW: The Lion and the Jewel is a light comedy by Nigerian playwright Wole Soyinka. It is considered one of the most important works in Soyinka’s oeuvre. The play depicts the conflict between traditional values and modernity, as embodied by the two main characters: Lakunle, a young man who embraces Western culture, and Sidi, a woman who represents the traditional values of her community. The play was written during a time of great change in Nigeria, as the country was transitioning from colonialism to independence. It is considered a classic work of Nigerian literature and has been translated into many languages, and staged all across the world, including at the Royal Court Theatre in 1966. It also serves as prescribed literature text for the West African School.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Wole Soyinka is one of Nigeria's most celebrated writers, playwrights, poets, and intellectuals. Born in 1934, his experiences and deep understanding of Nigerian culture, history, and Yoruba traditions shape his work in profound ways. In 1986, he became the first African to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature, recognised for his outstanding contribution to world literature. Soyinka's work explores universal themes of power, corruption, identity, sacrifice, and the struggle between tradition and modernity. His plays challenge audiences to question authority, confront injustice, and reflect on the complexities of human nature.
ABOUT GEDS: The Geneva English Drama Society is the home of English language theatre in Geneva. For over 90 years, we’ve brought together people who are passionate about great theatre to produce plays in and around the Geneva region of Switzerland. We produce at least three full stage productions every year, as well as hosting regular script-in-hand playreadings, workshops and social events. Anyone can get involved—our community brings together people of all nationalities, experience levels, and areas of interest. If you love theatre, we want to meet you!
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