A new stage play titled Hustler premiered at Terra Kulture, Victoria Island, Lagos, to a captivated audience. Produced by JustTheatre House Productions, the performance featured veteran actor Tony Umez alongside Awesome Duru, May Efe Okanigbe, and other talented cast members.
Hustler tells the poignant story of Obinna (also called Obizzy), a man weighed down by financial burdens, societal expectations, and personal health struggles. Introduced to a Ponzi scheme by his friend Francis in a desperate bid to find relief, Obinna’s situation worsens, leading to a devastating diagnosis: brain cancer with less than two weeks to live.
Caught between spiritual intervention and reckless escapism, Obinna is taken by his mother to a prophetess, while Francis drags him to a drug-filled joint. In a twist of fate, a visit from his late father’s lawyer becomes the turning point, urging him to stay hopeful. Encouraged by his wife’s eventual support, Obinna embraces the message that it’s never too late to find light at the end of the tunnel.
Speaking after the performance, Gboyega Akosile, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Media and Publicity, said the play “speaks to the many challenges we face as individuals—especially men who feel the pressure to provide without breaking down.” He emphasized its deeper commentary on mental health, burnout, and the importance of slowing down. “Even if you’re dying tomorrow,” he noted, “you can still enjoy your life today.” He further urged Nigerians to watch out for his stage play The Gods Have Spoken later in the year.
Awesome Duru, writer of the play and actor in the role of Francis, revealed that the script was written in under two weeks. “I just needed the full mental picture. Francis is a hustler with big dreams but no patience—he wanted to get rich quick, without hard work. The story shows that people need to slow down and take care of themselves.”
Director Ifeanyi Eziukwu added that Hustler emphasizes the need for self-care. “Find time to rest,” he advised. “Do what makes you happy—go to the beach, enjoy life. Avoid stress, avoid unnecessary politics. Just take care of yourself.”
Dr. Sam Anyamuele, co-producer and in-house producer at JustTheatre House, praised the play’s blend of stage aesthetics, sound, and strong performances. “This wasn’t just entertainment—it was a mirror reflecting the pressure we all feel. If you’re not mentally and physically well, you can’t keep hustling.”
Veteran actor Tony Umez, who played a flamboyant but troubled professor, said the play addresses what “men go through daily.” His advice? “Hustle well, but hustle right. Legal hustle only. Get the tools to prosper so your hustle pays off.”
May Efe Okanigbe, who doubled as stage manager and actor, echoed the importance of balance. “We work so hard, but we need to learn to rest. Think about your health, your sanity. Find a balance.”
Wilfred Oluku, CEO of Ariya Tickets, emphasized the need for openness, especially among men. “Many die in silence because they refuse to speak. Your help might come from your wife, but if you shut her out, you may lose the chance. Empower your spouse and share your struggles.”
The stage play also brought to the limelight the unveiling of the Hustler Podcast hosted by Damipe Adekoya, and several individuals were awarded the Hustler Award. Some were present while others were honored in absentia, including Adegboyega Akosile, AY the Comedian, Alibaba, Bolanle Austen-Peters, Gbenga Adeyinka the First, Opeyemi Senbanjo, Kevin Njideaka, Fumilayo Olubi, Joseph Edgar, and Steve Onu.
As Hustler closes its run at Terra Kulture, JustTheatre House Productions announced their upcoming production Baba Sala, set for November 1 and 2, in collaboration with Ariya Tickets. According to the producers, audiences should expect another engaging and socially relevant theatrical experience.
