What Mama Said
Osonye Tess Onwueme’s What Mama Said is a powerful drama exploring the intersection of tradition, gender, and survival in post-colonial Nigeria. Set in a community grappling with economic exploitation by oil corporations, the play follows Mama, a matriarch who mobilizes women to challenge societal injustices. Through lyrical dialogue and rich symbolism, it examines themes of environmental degradation, female empowerment, and cultural resilience. Onwueme’s evocative storytelling offers a compelling critique of neocolonialism and the resilience of African women in the face of adversity.
Osonye Tess Onwueme
Osonye Tess Onwueme is an acclaimed Nigerian playwright, poet, and scholar known for her incisive commentary on social, political, and cultural issues. Born in 1955, she has written extensively about gender inequality, environmental justice, and the struggles of marginalized communities in Africa. Her works, including What Mama Said and Tell It to Women, combine traditional African storytelling with contemporary issues. Onwueme’s contributions to literature and activism have earned her international recognition, making her a vital voice in global theatre and African feminist discourse
JOIN PLAY DATE
Play Date is a monthly play reading activity, held on the third Thursday of each month. We read one play from around the world together. The play reading is followed by a group discussion about the play. Anyone is welcome to join and practice reading out loud, regardless of experience or level of English comprehension. With Play Date, learning English becomes fun. This is a place where you can practice speaking out loud, expand your vocabulary and meet new people. Play Date is produced by Crane Creations Theatre Company. Crane Creations is an immigrant led professional theatre company located in Mississauga, Ontario Canada. Join us for our next Play Date!
