Titilope Sonuga's Artistic Exploration of Blackness, Womanhood, and Spirituality

Discover the captivating journey of Titilope Sonuga, an acclaimed international poet and playwright, who shares the remarkable story of her transition from civil engineering to a celebrated career in the literary arts. Journey with us as we uncover the pivotal moments that influenced her artistic voice—from her vibrant upbringing in Lagos, Nigeria, to her move to Canada at the age of 13, and her eventual return to Nigeria to reconnect with its literary community. Titilope's narrative is one of courage and creativity, rooted deeply in her Nigerian-Canadian identity, which continues to shape her powerful storytelling and performances.Step into the world of "Adad the Country," a musical that brings to light the experiences of Nigerian women, and explore the creative process behind its production. Titilope reflects on the thrill of witnessing her words come alive on stage, collaborating with talents like Lala Akin Doju in Nollywood, and her innovative venture into classical music with a unique take on Igor Stravinsky's "The Soldier's Tale." Through these creative explorations, she emphasizes the importance of drawing inspiration from everyday life and crafting a style that remains accessible, whether she’s writing plays, poetry, or other literary pieces.The episode concludes with a profound conversation on intersectionality in poetry, as Titilope discusses the balance between Blackness, womanhood, and her Yoruba heritage in her work. Delve into themes of spirituality, community, and hope, as we reflect on significant cultural moments, such as performing at the Nigerian presidential inauguration. Discover how Titilope's artistry is a blend of personal integrity, ancestral influences, and the wisdom of mentors, all contributing to her belief in the power of collective hope and the essential role of intuition in the artistic process. Join us for this enlightening exchange, where poetry becomes a shared spiritual connection, and a testament to the transformative power of art.You can connect with Titilope Sonuga using the following platform: https://titilope.ca/Thoughts on the podcast? Send us a text message.Support the show