What better way to welcome new intakes into the Department of Performing Arts than by performances, recitations and a pledge? The above was the case as Afe Babalola University Ado- Ekiti (ABUAD) inducted new Thespians of the Performing Arts Departments today, May 20, 2023. This event was led by icons of the theatre profession who have made an impact locally and globally. Among which were Toyin Adegbola (Asewo to Re Mecca) and Afeez Oyetoro aka Saka playing vital roles during the epochal and glamorous event. In attendance at the PTCF Amphi Theatre ABUAD were Yeye Modupe Afe Babalola, SAN, Elizabeth Smaranda Olarinde (VC of ABUAD), Dr Ade Adeseke – Director of a classic of Nigerian theatre, “The Gods are Not to Blame” by Ola Rotimi, which was performed by the students of the Department of Theatre and Media Arts, Ekiti State University to mark the occasion. Traditional dance performances also entertained the guests, which included students and parents.

Prof. Ododo, as High Priest of Thespis on the day reiterated the virtues of the theatre profession and the advantages of training as a thespian. According to him, “Theatre production is for the disciplined minds. It also forges collaboration among people, which are virtues needed for success in life. Thespians are all-rounders who end up imbibing diverse knowledge.” The GM/CEO Prof Ododo commended the school management for the giant strides the school is making. He donated books to the school library. The GM/CEO then led the new students in the chanting of induction creed for the new students which ran thus:Oh, great God of the universe, the Master creator HimselfWe gather here today to welcome new students into our community.

We all are products of your divine creation.
We ask that you deposit in us good measure of your creative ingenuity.
We seek your gifts of skills, passion, talent and creativity.
Enable us to use our creative gifts to entertain, educate, and inspire others;
Use our voice to speak truth to power for justice and fairness,
Deploy our art to make the world a better place.
We welcome these inductees into our fold, as We look forward to their extraordinary accomplishments.
Thank you, Supreme God of the universe
Thank you, the muses and gods of creativity, and
Thank you, the forefathers of theatre practice.
The students were led on customary procession by the High Priest of Thespis and other distinguished guests.
Sights and sounds