The Runway Heist on Broadway: When Lagos Fashion Stepped into Theatre

   The Runway Heist on Broadway: When Lagos Fashion Stepped into Theatre

Lagos fashion witnessed a defining creative moment as The Runway Heist on Broadway, a fashion-theatre production curated by BareFashionEvening, concluded to wide acclaim, positioning itself as one of the most conceptually ambitious runway experiences in the city’s recent fashion history. Far beyond a conventional fashion show, the production fused high fashion, live music, theatrical performance, and storytelling, reimagining the runway as a stage where garments, bodies, and narratives converged in a single immersive experience.

Inspired by the tradition of Broadway productions, the show unfolded as a cinematic performance rather than a linear runway. Carefully choreographed walks, dramatic lighting, expressive movement, live vocals, and dance sequences transformed the space into a living story. Each designer’s collection was intentionally staged to unfold as a narrative, allowing garments to communicate emotion, memory, and meaning rather than exist as isolated looks. The result was a multi-layered presentation that reflected the evolving identity of African fashion as expressive, collaborative, and culturally grounded.

Speaking on the creative direction behind the production, Jonarry Agraka, the convener of the event, described The Runway Heist on Broadway as a deliberate rethinking of how fashion should be experienced on the continent. According to him, the platform was created to move fashion beyond aesthetics and return it to its core as a medium of expression and storytelling. He noted that the intention was to create a space where designers, models, and creatives could tell honest stories through movement, sound, and performance, rather than being confined to the traditional runway format. Agraka further explained that the vision behind the show was to provide visibility and opportunity for emerging talent, encouraging collaboration, discovery, and creative freedom within the fashion ecosystem.

At the heart of the showcase was a carefully curated lineup of emerging and forward-thinking designers whose collections explored themes of memory, celebration, sustainability, structure, and contemporary African expression. One of the most emotionally resonant moments of the evening came from Ethnic Stitches, whose collection was inspired by her late brother, a painter whose artistic influence shaped her bold use of colour blocks. Remarkably put together in just ten days, the presentation stood as a tribute to love, loss, and creative inheritance. The moment her son presented her with flowers after the showcase became one of the night’s most touching scenes, capturing fashion’s ability to hold personal memory and emotion.

Creative Director of Sassy by Etty presented a collection titled “Essentials for Christmas,” built around a refined palette of blue, red, and black. Drawing inspiration from the festive season, she described the collection as a significant improvement on her previous work, citing stronger structure, clearer styling, and better overall execution. Her presentation reflected the confidence of a designer growing into her creative identity and refining her voice within the industry.

Sustainability features prominently through KODIELZZ, whose designs are created entirely from recycled waste. Rooted in faith and environmental responsibility, her collection reinforced the increasing relevance of eco-conscious fashion within Nigeria’s creative landscape. By transforming discarded materials into wearable art, her work highlighted the possibility of aligning fashion with purpose and accountability.

Architect and fashion designer Adebayo Oyenuga, who returned as both a guest and sponsor, described the event as a vital discovery platform for emerging designers. Having been impressed by previous editions, he returned to support the initiative, encouraging young creatives to remain original, committed to their craft, and open to continuous improvement. He noted that platforms such as The Runway Heist on Broadway are critical for uncovering new talent and sustaining the growth of the fashion industry.

Distinctively, the production challenged conventional modelling norms by positioning models as performers and storytellers rather than passive participants. The runway demanded emotional engagement, vulnerability, and expression. Model Enoch Adeoluwa described the experience as intense yet rewarding, highlighting the strong bonds formed during rehearsals and training sessions. He openly shared that he experienced a panic attack during rehearsals but was able to pull through with the support of a close friend, underscoring the emotional demands behind live performance.

Similarly, Ayomide Ayoola described feeling anxious, scared, and physically shaken before stepping onto the runway, but ended the show with a deep sense of fulfilment after overcoming her fears. For Umole Arnold, the experience stood apart from traditional fashion shows. He described it as a full Broadway-style performance filled with music, acting, and dance, admitting that while he was nervous at the beginning, he eventually found his rhythm and confidence. Dominance described the experience as marvellous, praising the outfits, makeup, and overall production quality.

International representation came through Lein, a Congolese-born model with Nigerian roots, who reflected on adapting to Lagos’ fashion scene despite early language barriers. Having relied on translation tools when she first arrived in the city, her participation highlighted the inclusive and global nature of the platform.

Music played a central role in shaping the emotional rhythm of the show. Singer Keleya, from Imo State, delivered live performances of three original songs that were seamlessly integrated into the runway narrative. She revealed that she performed without collecting a fee, choosing instead to use the platform to promote her music and connect with new audiences. Her contribution reinforced the collaborative spirit of the production, where creative expression took precedence over commercial considerations.

The event drew a diverse audience of industry professionals, creatives, sponsors, and fashion enthusiasts. Industry figures Demirah, Jeremiah, and Victor Bayo noted that such platforms provide valuable exposure, placing creatives before influential audiences and opening doors to future collaborations. Fashion enthusiast Oluwatosin praised the attention to detail in the event’s planning, from the smooth red-carpet experience to the quality of the audience, describing the show as defined by excellence, poise, and luxury. Former models Hannah and Rosemary attended to reconnect with the creative energy of the runway and observe emerging talent, while emerging designer Maryjane of Black by MJ, accompanied by Deborah, attended with the intention of learning and preparing for future participation. Fashion model and designer Ochanya, from Benue State, described fashion as her happy place, expressing excitement about drawing inspiration from the showcase.

More than a fashion event, The Runway Heist on Broadway emerged as a cultural statement, affirming that African fashion is evolving beyond presentation into performance, narrative, and emotional engagement. It demonstrated that when fashion collaborates with theatre, music, and movement, it becomes a powerful medium for storytelling and cultural expression. As Lagos continues to position itself as a global creative capital, The Runway Heist on Broadway stands as a compelling example of how African fashion can innovate boldly, speak authentically, and command lasting attention.