Fela Anikulapo Kuti and the Kalakuta Queens; the Untold Story

We all know Fela, how much do you know of his queens?

Nigerian music legend, Fela Anikulapo Kuti is one whose efforts at social and political reformation has had great impacts through different generations.

Well known for using his craft to criticize and bring the ills of the government to the fore, Fela was highly respected. A man whose legacy is evergreen, idolised in life and long after death.

Sunday,the 10th of December 2017 had thespians gathered at Terra Kulture, Victoria Island, Lagos to tell the story of Fela and his Kalakuta Queens. The life of the music legend through a stage play was presented in a different light.

Directed by Bolanle Austen Peters, for the first time, the story of Fela’s queens; the Kalakuta queens was told.

Playing the role of Fela, Laitan Adeniji in a well ennacted manner, potrayed a perfect picture of Fela and life in  Kalakuta.

From been assaulted and battered for staying with the legend, the queens, all found their ways to become Mrs. Fela.

The Kalakuta Yard

The Kalakuzu (Kalakuta prison), the Kalakondo, (Fela’s room), and many more were attractions of the play. Little did anyone know of the loyalty of the queens to their Fela, despite great disrespect from the public. Raped and battered by the law, these queens stayed with their king till the end.

Who knew that the slight they got from the public led the legend to making them his wives. “Without my queens, there is no me,” he said as he declared that he was going to make all twenty of them, his wives on the same day.

The rivalry between these queens was also one that could be described in no other way than amazing. Rivals today, friends tomorrow. As long as it is in the interest of their home, Kalakuta.

According to the director, the story was gotten from the Kuti family thus, all information was first hand. One of the late singer’s band members was also present at the event.

Two of the Kalakuta queens, Lara and Laide were present at the showand spoke fondly of their king. They however confirmed the authenticity of the story.