Death and the King's Horseman

Overview

In British-occupied Nigeria, a Yoruba king, the Alafin, has died, and it is the duty of his horseman, Elesin, to accompany him into the afterlife. While lustily enjoying the pleasures of this world, Elesin proudly anticipates his transition to the next – but the sacred ritual is interrupted, resulting in unforeseen tragedy. Inspired by a real-life incident, this masterpiece from Nobel Prize winner Soyinka celebrates a community striving to uphold its culture in the face of colonial power.

Directed by Tawiah M'Carthy

Top cast

Anthony Santiago

Elesin

Amaka Umeh

Praise-Singer

Graham Abbey

Simon Pilkings

Kwaku Adu-Poku

Olunde

Akosua Amo-Adem

Iyaloja

Maev Beaty

Jane Pilkings

Josue Laboucane

The Prince

P

Pulga Muchochoma

Joseph/Drummer

N

Ngabo Nabea

Sergeant Amusa

Bola Aiyeola

Adedoja

C

Celia Aloma

Olabisi

I

Isi Bhakhomen

Omosalewa

Déjah Dixon-Green

Apinke

I

Ijeoma Emesowum

Ariyike

R

Rachel Jones

Companion to the Resident

Matthew Kabwe

Constable

Kevin Kruchkywich

The Resident

A

Andrea Rankin

Companion to the Prince

Tyrone Savage

Aide-de-camp

E

Espoir Segbeaya

Wuraola

Details