Every human being carries a dream within them. Dreams are what gives us hope and set our existence on the path of fulfilment. With every flow of passion coursing through our veins, and purpose urging us on, we ultimately come alive. Our dreams have a way of shaping us into the person we want to become and more. I experienced this firsthand as I prepared for the maiden edition of “Laugh Out Loud”- an idea I nurtured for a comedy show.
On September 20th, 2016, the show held successfully at the main auditorium of the prestigious University of Lagos. Honestly, I didn’t think planning the event would challenge my abilities the way it did. The moments leading to the event were crazy. My heart was beating with suspense birthed by certain uncertainties.
I was worried about the kind of vibe the audience might bring to the show. It was an open secret, for some odd reasons, comedians easily became the joke in student concentrated environment like the University of Lagos. Also, twenty-four hours to this landmark occasion, the authorities hadn’t approved my use of the main auditorium despite several prompt requests.
Regardless of the clear stumbling blocks, publicity went on, tickets sale were very encouraging and the energy on campus was positive and great. I kept telling myself, “Unilag had better approve my event if they don’t want to suffer for 600 years.”
The deadlock with the authorities awakened unfriendly ghosts of the past. I had always wanted to host a show in this amazing institution. It was a way of appreciating one of the places that had been influential to my growth. Before now, I teamed up with a colleague, and also my faculty. On both occasions, it turned out to be a logistical nightmare. These shows never held.
I knew 2016 was the perfect year for the event because those who could help me with organizing would have graduated by the turn of the year. Since those in charge were trying to make us run mad, I decided to do something crazy. On August 31st, 2016, I took the counsel of the hall manager who told me to go public with the details of the event pending approval.
This was a big risk for me considering the event was fully funded from my purse. What if the school authorities decide not to approve the show? Ha!!! Gobe!!! Thank God for Shikemi Olaniyan who encouraged me at the time that she was fully convinced it would turn out great.
Finally, on the morning of September 20th, amidst the tense atmosphere, I eventually got a call from the Dean of Student Affairs {DSA}, at about 10:57am, telling me that my event had been approved and I could make payment for the hall. I quickly called my team, and told them to begin preparations because Laugh Out Loud was happening.
On getting to the hall that morning, we were told we couldn’t get access to the auditorium until 5pm. This was because a lecturer that had an inaugural lecture the next day and was busy with the venue. At this point, everyone could see the impatience in my eyes because my payment covered the use of the hall for the whole day.
Despite the setback, that evening, I had the time of my life. I still remember the brilliance of the ambience. The performers were out of this world. The crowd was awesome. It was painful and stressful story with a beautiful ending.
It’s been four years since I had that splendid and dreamy experience. I recognize I haven’t been able to express an appropriate gratitude to those who helped me achieve this great feat.
Laugh Out Loud wouldn’t have happened without the help of God almighty and the support of my team members {Gbenga Sanusi, Grant Akinsola, Richard Davies, Innocent Nwachukwu, Kola Lawal, DDR, Demola Agbakosi, Bayo Iyaomolere, James Omoboriowo, Luski}. I’m glad that every one of them now hosts bigger shows.
To my family, my parent, Tolulope and Segun Okunloro, thank you for believing in me. To Jide and Morayo Odukoya, thank you for the support. To Oluwafolashikemi Olaniyan, thank you for the inspiration and motivation all through the time. To the performers {comedians and music artistes}, thank you for giving your best towards the success of the show. The memory of the show is something I will always live with.
Michael Okunloro | Elevate Your Style 
It’s glorious seeing grow in God’s awesomeness. More shows to your Grace
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