EMCA proudly presents the 10-year anniversary of Helen Epega’s Song Queen: A Pidgin Opera, returning to Wilton’s Music Hall in London from 24 to 26 April.
The limited run includes three performances, culminating with a Saturday matinee on 26 April.
Fresh from a sold-out appearance at the Elgar Room, Royal Albert Hall, the production continues to defy convention and redefine opera as an inclusive, multicultural art form. By combining classical music traditions with Afrocentric rhythms and forward-looking soundscapes, it features a rich blend of Nigerian Pidgin, Patois, Creole, Cockney, Hip-Hop Vernacular, and London street slang—making opera accessible and relevant to new audiences.
This dynamic 90-minute performance features a world-class ensemble: Helen Epega (Composer-Librettist and Lead Vocalist), Richard Ọlátúndé Baker (African Percussion), Abdul William (Steel Pans), Francis Angol (Choreographer), Esme Benjamin (Movement Artist), Louisa Martin (Soprano), Francesca Bartolo (Mezzo), Jacob Cole (Tenor), Ted Day (Baritone), Karolina Przasnyska (Violinist), Daniel Yiu (Cellist), Manuel Gageiro (Piano), Antoinette Jackman (Director), and Baba Epega (Executive Producer).
Helen Epega, Composer-Librettist and Lead, said: “It’s incredible to see how this opera has evolved over ten years. This anniversary run is a celebration of everything we’ve built – music, culture and community.
“The show is a celebration of African and multicultural voices with a story that reflects cultural diversity. It pushes the boundaries of traditional opera with a visually and sonically immersive performance. We are also proud to be British Sign Language-accessible, making opera more inclusive for wider audiences.”
Debuting in 2015 at London’s The Place Theatre, Song Queen: A Pidgin Opera has travelled globally, engaging audiences in cities such as Lagos, Turin, Bodrum, and Cape Town. Set in a visually rich Afrofuturistic world, the story follows heroine Kenate as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Tickets start from £12.50 (£10 for concessions) and can be booked online at songqueenapidginopera.com.
