Mr Macaroni Swaps Comedy Sets For London Stage As He Takes On Major Historical Role In ’55 Days’

Debo Adedayo, popularly known as Mr Macaroni, has swapped comedy skits and Nollywood sets for the London theatre stage, starring as Lord Commander Thomas Fairfax in 55 Days at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts.

If you’ve been wondering what Mr Macaroni has been up to lately, the answer might surprise you. Nigerian actor, comedian and activist Debo Adedayo has taken a bold leap from viral comedy to classical theatre, taking on a major historical role in 55 Days as part of his postgraduate studies at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in London.

For years, Debo has entertained millions through satirical skits, social commentary, and memorable Nollywood performances. Now, he is adding a prestigious UK theatre credit to his résumé after completing his run in the acclaimed historical drama.

From Skits To Shakespeare: Inside ’55 Days’ In London

The production, which ran from 15 to 18 July 2026, formed part of Mountview’s postgraduate performance season, showcasing the work of students enrolled in the academy’s Master of Arts in Performance programme.

Written by acclaimed British playwright Howard Brenton and directed by James Yeatman, 55 Days was staged at The Backstage Theatre on Mountview’s Peckham campus. The historical drama transports audiences to December 1648, immediately following the English Civil War, chronicling the tense 55-day period that led to the trial and execution of King Charles I.

• The Story: Explores the political conflict between the monarchy, Oliver Cromwell, and the Parliamentary Army as England grappled with governing without a king.
• The Role: Mr Macaroni took on the role of Lord Commander Thomas Fairfax — the respected commander-in-chief of the Parliamentary Army and one of the era’s most influential military figures.
• The Look: Wearing meticulously crafted 17th-century military costume designed by Sorcha Corcoran, complete with dark tailored doublet, white linen collar, and military sash.

A Postgraduate Cohort Of Rising Stars

Currently pursuing his MA in Performance at Mountview — one of the UK’s most respected drama training institutions — Debo performed alongside fellow postgraduate cast members Benedict Barker, Maryam Gafar, Sam Gordon-Webb, and Ben Mansell in what became one of the season’s flagship theatre productions.

This move signals a deeper evolution for the comedian-turned-actor, who has consistently used his platform for advocacy and artistic growth, from his early days at Redeemer’s University to global screens.

Mr Macaroni In ’55 Days’: At A Glance

Why This Matters

Mr Macaroni’s London stage debut positions him among a new generation of Nigerian creatives intentionally investing in global training and classical craft. It mirrors the path of stars like John Boyega and Michaela Coel who trained at elite UK drama schools before global breakout.

For Nigerian youth who know him as “Daddy Wa” or “Professor Hardlife,” this transition is a masterclass in reinvention — proving that comedy, activism, and classical theatre can coexist in one powerful career.【8403130404780053576†L8-L14】

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Tags: Mr Macaroni, Debo Adedayo, 55 Days, Mountview Academy, Lord Fairfax, London Theatre, Nigerian Entertainment News, Howard Brenton, James Yeatman