Nigeria marks 65 years with orchestral throwback

Nigeria celebrated 65 years of independence with Enchanted Concerts, a live production blending orchestral jazz with theatrical narration to honor the nation's musical heritage. The series featured works from highlife, juju, Afrobeat, and pop ballads performed by live orchestras paired with monologues exploring national identity and memory. The Canadian tour began on Sept. 12 in Toronto with the Key30 Orchestra and featured selections from Victor Olaiya, Sir Victor Uwaifo, Osita, and Osadebe, while Calgary hosted a Sept. 13 performance with works from Bobby Benson and Evi Edna Ogholi. The Lagos finale occurred on Sept. 28 at the Muson Centre with the Premier Symphony Orchestra, and it drew diplomatic officials and families who responded emotionally to six decades of Nigerian cultural history.