Idia Aisien’s UK Theatre Debut Blends Art, Advocacy, and African Storytelling

With Dear Father, Idia Aisien brings Nigerian storytelling and powerful themes to the London stage.

Idia Aisien, the Nigerian-American actress with a commanding presence both on- and off-screen, is poised to make a powerful entrance onto the UK stage. She stars in Dear Father, a play set to run June 12–14, 2025, at London’s Fireworks Factory, Woolwich Works.

Aisien, whose 1.3 million Instagram followers have followed her from her days in fashion and television to her breakout film roles, joins a stellar cast including RMD, Kunle Remi, and Tobi Bakre.

Her breakthrough came in 2020 with her title role in Nneka the Pretty Serpent, which established her as a bold new voice in African cinema. But theatre offers a more intimate platform. “Dear Father is more than a play; it’s a statement about love, loss, and the role fathers play in helping their daughters find their voice,” said Aisien.

The production takes on timely issues including family dynamics and femicide, combining social impact with narrative artistry.

Aisien noted, “This role came at a time when I was personally reflecting on the importance of the relationships that shape us—especially those with our parents.”

The performance is not just a debut, but a broader cultural moment. Aisien’s move into the UK theatre circuit reflects the increasing global appetite for African stories—and for artists who can tell them with authenticity.