Amidst examination tension, the Dramatic Arts Students Association, OAU chapter (DASA) has, in a unique manner, calmed the nerves through their electrifying Game of Glam. On the night of Thursday, the part three students of DASA showcased more than a runway show but also a fine blend of artistic prowess, talent, and creativity.
The runway show which Biyi Praise hosted started around 6:20 pm and had in attendance the HOD of the department, Dr Abiodun Olayiwola, Dr Justin, Dr Babatunde Bakare, Dr Toyin Ogundeji, the lecturer in charge of DRA 307, other lecturers from the department, and the incredible ESUSU from Seven doors, a masterpiece by Femi Adebayo.
Also in attendance was Her Royal Majesty, Olori Aderonke Ademiluyi Ogunwusi, the wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II. She described their creativity in textiles, makeup, hair, and music as phenomenal and encouraged the students to embrace creative skills.
“As we all know, creative skills are the skills of the future. They are the jobs of the future. I learned my fashion skills when I was at the university. I was studying law, but I used to buy and sell to my co-students and my friends. And that enabled me to become one of the leading voices in African Fashion”
“It has enabled me to become a fashion entrepreneur, to be the founder of Africa Fashion in London, Nigeria, the co-founder of Africa Fashion with Brazil, and the CEO of the Adire Oduduwa textile. So the skills that you are being taught, do not take them for granted. You never know how they can come in handy in the future. So whatever you do, I wish you the best of luck. But if you decide to take up any fashion or textile skills, I am available to mentor you. Good luck.”
The first performance by the third-year students surpassed the audience’s expectations. The high-spirited students vibe with their costume, which was a mix of modernity and vintage.
They had accessories made out of Ankara to compliment their looks. Accessories like purses, bags, necklaces, earrings, ties, belts, and hats are all made out of fabric. The ladies rocked with their Afro, Bantu knots, and high Kiko with a keen resemblance to an arch(threading), and the men simply slayed with low cuts, dread locks, and tinted hair.
DJ Tlalo, kept the atmosphere in a frenzy as he transported his audience from one musical artist to another with hip-hop, fuji, and afrobeat. In addition to the show, there was a talent display of comedy by Nifemi, a song performance by Psamuel, and an acapella rendition of Jerusalem by four DASA students.
The Ankara costume major, Tie and dye, Newspaper and fabric, and Batique appearance of the show was more than a mere performance. It is a portrayal of our culture and beliefs, one of elegance, class, uniqueness, and a mix of creativity, fashion, and fun. It is a symbol of what unites us as a society
Aliu Gafar, popularly known as Esusu from Seven Doors, made a replica of one of his famous and most loved acts from Seven Doors, which had the audience screaming in delight. There was also a moment of praising the creator of the entire universe.
The show ended with the part three students dancing and enjoying the moment as the DJ played a song by King Sunny Ade, Appreciation.