From nightfall to sundown, Fela Kuti and Africa 70 captivated the youth of Lagos with electrifying melodies and intoxicating rhythms at The Shrine–an influential nightclub that became a refuge for people to unwind, dance, commune, and liberate themselves.
Nigerian-born Olawale Ogundana told What Now Las Vegas that the Shrine in Lagos is “one of the best places to be and have fun when you go to Nigeria.” It is a space to celebrate Fela’s music, which is “all about the culture and the vibe.”
Soon you won’t have to fly to Lagos for this otherworldly experience.
Ogundana is bringing the spirit of the original Shrine to his own nightclub just east of the Las Vegas strip, “where people can feel like they’re home in Lagos, Nigeria.” The Shrine, just as the original, will be a cultural center for the Nigerian and African community in the greater Las Vegas area–a community that Ogundana noted is “strong but unknown.”
The Shrine will spotlight old and new African artists, from Fela Kuti (the Father of Afrobeat) to WizKid and Nigerian-American Davido. Aside from bumping irresistible beats, The Shrine will provide a full bar, hookah lounge, and, by the end of the year, will serve African-inspired fare, such as fufu, along with American foods like wings and fries with an African twist.
The 2,990 square foot nightclub at 4160 S Pecos Road is currently under construction; however, owner Ogundana told What Now Las Vegas that he plans to open The Shrine by late July.
With future plans of opening multiple and larger locations in Las Vegas, Ogundana hopes that, by making the African community in the area known and establishing its large fanbase, African artists will be drawn to the city.
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