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In a masterful display of artistic prowess, each stroke and creation tells a compelling story, intricately interwoven with genuine emotion. The artist's commitment to transparency is evident through the presentation of limited editions, creating an aura of exclusivity. With an unwavering dedication to quality, premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship elevate every piece, resonating with satisfied customers who attest to the artist's authenticity and storytelling brilliance, forming lasting bonds with art enthusiasts.
Debola Santa's latest production, "Who Tiff Monalisa," stands as a satirical expedition into the labyrinth of white lies within the art world. The cast, featuring Uche Chika Elumelu as Reki, Austine Onuoha as Eda, and Tunde "Mister Rain" Ojobaro as Monsieur Raphael, takes the audience on this whimsical journey under the creative direction of writer, director, and producer Debola Santa Ogunshina.
The narrative unfolds with Eda, a struggling artist, yearning to sell his creations for a substantial sum, specifically over 100k. Seeking guidance from his partner, Reki, Eda grapples with the ethical dilemma of packaging his art with the right story for enhanced marketability. Despite Reki's persuasive arguments in favor of storytelling, Eda, guided by moral principles, hesitates to embrace deception for quick financial gain. The revelation of Eda's past art scam intensifies his ethical reservations.
Reki, the cunning mastermind, strategically crafts narratives portraying Eda as a survivor of the Lekki tollgate massacre. However, her schemes do not stop there; she weaves a web of stories, attempting to position Eda as a hunchback artist with a disability, and even goes as far as suggesting his demise, turning his works posthumous. Reki's unyielding determination to climb to the top is evident in her elaborate plans.
As the plot thickens, Reki collaborates with Eda, unwittingly roped into her scheme to steal the Mona Lisa, which, as it turns out, is not the genuine article but a local imitation. Monsieur Raphael, with his faux French accent and limited art knowledge, becomes an unintentional participant. Eda's surprising character development shines as he effortlessly captivates Monsieur Raphael with his insightful analogies, while Reki appears to lose her touch with the art of white lies.
Monsieur Raphael's lack of art industry savvy becomes apparent, portraying him as a mere pawn in the larger game. The comedic climax ensues as Eda, previously resistant to storytelling, outshines Monsieur Raphael in crafting narratives for the stolen art. The play reaches its pinnacle as Reki and Eda execute their plan to pilfer the imitation Mona Lisa, inadvertently involving Monsieur Raphael, who is subdued and unveils his underwhelming compensation and intellectual shortcomings.
Against a set limited only by imagination, the actors—Elumelu, Onuoha, and Ojobaro—deliver performances that breathe life into their characters, creating an engaging and visually dynamic experience.
In my perspective, "Who Tiff Monalisa" emerges as a comedic masterpiece, transforming a seemingly ordinary scenario into a riveting tale layered with intrigue. The deliberate choice of three actors enhances clarity and ease of understanding, resulting in a delightful and immersive theatrical experience.
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