Words have the power to uplift and empower. And on December 3rd, renowned Writer, Poet, Performer, and Storyteller, Wana Udobang, wielded this power with precision at her show, “Souled Out with Wana Wana.”
Known for her stellar contributions to the literary world – including commissions for Edinburgh International Festival, Deutsches Museum, Fonds SozioKultur and The Gates Foundation, Wana is no stranger to performing on global platforms. But this show which was held at RELE in Ikoyi, Lagos, felt distinctively different, as she took her audience on an intimate journey of reflection – her personal stories also mirrored different facets of their own life journey.
More than just an entertaining show, Wana’s performance was an evening of catharsis and healing for all who attended. From recollections of beautiful memories with her mother, to overcoming childhood trauma, self-image acceptance, and much more, the gifted poet touched on a variety of narratives that many could relate to.
Wana’s community and friends like Folu Storms, Munachi Abii, Latasha Ngwube, Lamide Akintobi, Enado Odigie and more, showed up with arms wide open to support her. Dwin the Stoic also graced the stage with a captivating performance, adding another layer to the soulful evening.
As Wana Wana wove her magic with words, the atmosphere was awash with a range of emotions from empathy, to joy, and other indescribable sentiments in between, as vulnerability was laid bare. Femi Leye, Wana’s long-time musical collaborator and director, performed along with her in the show, enriching the experience with soulful musical notes.
Commenting on the experience, Karina Karunwi, one of the 100 guests present, eloquently captured the essence of the show: “We sat in the gallery and listened, laughed, played, cried. I watched Wana Wana shift individual & collective worlds with such playfulness and grace – how does someone balance both so well?”
For those who were lucky enough to witness Souled Out, the evening will forever stay with them as a reminder of the beauty that comes from embracing their true selves. The magic of “Souled Out” was the soulful journey which Wana Wana took her audience on, through the power of Spoken Word. And indeed, everyone was sold out to Souled Out!
“Souled Out with Wana Wana” is proudly supported by Rele Gallery, Q21 Solutions, Euphorique PR, The Pod, and Beefeater Gin.