Family, associates remember veteran theatre artist, Ishola Ogunsola, 30 years after death

Family and associates of late theatre practitioner, Ishola Ogunsola popularly called ‘I.Show.Pepper’ have remembered him 30 years after his death.

Recently, the children, his colleagues and admirers converged on the Wole Soyinka Hall, Department of Theatre Arts, University of Ibadan for a conference where the works of Ishola Ogunsola and his impact on the profession were examined.

Notable filmmakers and industry heavyweights were in attendance, including Dr. Yemi Farounbi, Adebayo Salami, Peju Ogunmola and Kunle Afolayan among others.

While the family regretted that it took them three decades to organise the public event in honour of one of the doyens of theatre in Nigeria, they promised that they will continue to celebrate the contributions of their patriarch through a foundation and other channels where the current generation can learn about his work and appreciate it.

In a statement by the family on the official Facebook page opened in memory of the late thespian, the family wrote:

“So, we celebrated the 30th-year remembrance of a Legend, the super-talented man, Dr. I. Sho Pepper. To God be the glory, everything went well with the testimony. To God alone be all glory. And a massive thank you to all the amazing people who supported us to ensure a successful event. Thank You.

“We know that people generally have more expectations from Dr. I. Sho Pepper’s family after the passage of our dear father. We apologise that it has taken us this long to bring his work out. God works in different ways and his timing is always the best. God makes all things beautiful in His own time.

“We have great news for the lovers of Isola Ogunsola, God has given us his grace to release some of his works on YouTube and by God’s grace you will be hearing more from the foundation.

“We started a Foundation in his name, Dr. I. Sho Pepper Foundation. It is through this that we will develop and build a Resource center named ‘Dr. I. Sho Pepper Arts Theatre.’ The location is at the place of his birth, Olokuta Village in Oyo State, on a piece of land he bought himself to be used as a Film village which couldn’t be done because he departed. By God’s grace, the land will be put to good use and the center will house his work and those of other veteran artists of his time.

The place will have a Museum as well as a place of study for performing Arts students. Also, it will have a Theatre where stage performances and Film screenings will be done.

“We will appreciate your prayers and any other support you can render. May the Lord perfect that which he has started in this project in Jesus’ name. Amen”