Dear Kaffi thrilled South African audiences despite immigration challenges, proving the resilience of Nigerian theatre and Bolanle Austen-Peters’ vision
By Eva Irewole
“The last time I went to South Africa to perform,” Mrs Bolanle Austen-Peters wrote on her Instagram page in March, “I took over 50 cast and crew. This time, we were about 20 people, but the amount of issues we faced with visas and immigration at the South African border shows how bad things have deteriorated between Nigeria and South Africa.”
That was how the lawyer-turned-prolific theatre and film director summed up the 10-day tour of South Africa with her cast and crew in March 2025 with her popular play, Dear Kaffi.
A great show, but lessons have been learnt, according to Mrs Austen-Peters.
“I marvel at how, in spite of the challenges we face as a group, a nation, or an industry, we continue to aspire, inspire, and push boundaries. Through tenacity, incredible friends, audacity, and faith, we keep pushing to change the narrative and improve our industry and the perception of Nigeria.
“Interestingly, corporate Nigeria and the government give us little or no support on these international tours. The project was funded by the South African State Theatre and BAP Productions, who recognise the power of the arts to connect people, bridge gaps, and change narratives.
“As an individual, I am taking up traditionally corporate and government roles to achieve these milestones. Our counterparts in South Africa, and I dare say in other parts of the world, find it so much easier. That is a luxury that they enjoy—but does that mean we should stop? No! Rather, we keep pushing until something gives. That is the indomitable spirit of a Nigerian.
“Don’t get me wrong—sometimes I ask myself why it can’t be easier for us as Nigerians. But as soon as I start wallowing in self-pity, I pick myself up, dust my emotions, readjust my mindset, and say to myself: NEXT! So, ladies and gentlemen, to the next challenge… God help us. Thanks to the South African people who loved and embraced our art wholeheartedly, and to the South African State Theatre. You made this possible. You made the two biggest African nations connect,” she stated.
But on the stage in Pretoria, it was all excitement and applause from thespians and theatre-goers when Dear Kaffi had its tour. With its rich Nigerian cast, the play opened to critical acclaim in Pretoria on February 27th.
The tour, as BAP noted, was at the invitation of the South African State Theatre, whose partnership with Bolanle Austen-Peters Productions promoted the two-week run of the play across several theatres in South Africa.
“Through tenacity, incredible friends, audacity and faith, we keep pushing to change the narrative and improve our industry.” – Bolanle Austen-Peters
The opening night was sold out and attended by dignitaries, including the Acting Nigerian Ambassador to South Africa, His Excellency Temitope Ajayi; the Chief Executive Officer of the South African State Theatre, Sibongiseni Mkhize; and the Artistic Director of the South African State Theatre, Aubrey Sekhabi.
That was the second time BAP Productions would tour South Africa. In 2022, Saro The Musical also toured select South African theatres.
About a dozen performances of Dear Kaffi thrilled audiences, with at least one show staged daily between February 27th and March 9th, 2025.
Dear Kaffi – Kike’s Story is a captivating tale of a 35-year-old single woman, Kikelomo Olota, navigating life, love, and societal expectations in Lagos. From her teenage years, Kike’s brilliance in academics earned her admiration, but her lack of romantic relationships set her apart. Determined to fit in, she traded her smartness for popularity, only to find herself entangled in a series of tumultuous relationships.
From Femi, a charming but deceitful lover, to Emeka, a seemingly perfect man who turned out to be married, Kike’s journey is filled with heartbreak and lessons that shape her perspective on love and self-worth. Amid growing pressure from her family, especially her father, Kike is introduced to Debo, a suitor with whom she shares an unexpected connection. However, her past returns in the form of Tamuno, an ex-boyfriend whose presence threatens her budding relationship with Debo.
As Kike struggles to reconcile her desires with societal expectations, she is forced to confront her insecurities, redefine her values, and decide what truly matters. With humour, music, and a sharp critique of cultural norms, Dear Kaffi is a vibrant exploration of love, identity, and the pursuit of authenticity in the face of overwhelming pressure.
The Nigerian cast of the play in South Africa included Uzo Osimkpa, who plays the lead role of Kike; Yewande Osamein (Tolani); Abiola Lepe (Bidemi); Sharon Onyegbula (Shalewa); and Ralph Okoro (Tamuno). Others were Hector Amiwero and Obiora Maduegbuna (Debo), Floyd Igbo (Femi), Bimbo Manuel (Father), and Bukola Ogunnote (Mother).
Dear Kaffi had a successful premiere in Nigeria at the maiden edition of the Lagos International Theatre Festival (LITF) in November 2024. The play also returned to the Terra Kulture stage during the yuletide season last year.
With the latest South African tour, Dear Kaffi has become Bolanle Austen-Peters’ latest play to earn international acclaim, following in the footsteps of Saro The Musical, Wakaa The Musical, and Fela & The Kalakuta Queens, which have been performed in London, Cairo, and Johannesburg at various times.
