Crown of Blood

A Yoruba Adaptation of Macbeth

‘Of what use is a good man without ambition?’ 

Following on from the success of Death and The King’s Horseman (February 2025), Utopia Theatre and Sheffield Theatres are delighted to announce the tour of their latest co-production, Crown of Blood, which premiered at the Crucible Theatre in February 2026. Kicking things off at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, this show full of twists and turns is not one to be missed. 
 
Crown of Blood is a powerful new Yoruba adaptation of Macbeth, following the story of General Aderemi. Following a battle victory, he is promoted to Field Marshall, thus fulfilling the prophecy of the oracle. When the oracle says that Aderemi will later become King, he and his wife Oyebisi embark on a bloody mission to ensure he sits on the throne. 
 
Set within 19th-Century Yorubaland, this adaptation of the classic tale is adorned with cultural heritage and spirituality in its storytelling, music and movement, creating a compelling mix of dimensions that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This is the classic, well-loved story of revenge, ambition and deception with a twist. Crown of Blood is Shakespeare as you've never seen it before. 
 
Written by: Oladipo Agboluaje 
Directed by: Mojisola Kareem 
Developed with the support of the National Theatre’s Generate programme