Parliament of Owls Summary
Act 1 Summary
In Act 1 of "Parliament of Owls" by Adipo Sidang, the scene is set at sunset with the sound of a flute and owls hooting in the background. Osogo, a bird, is playing a melancholic tune on his flute while perched on a stone. Red String, another bird wearing peculiar glasses made from millet stalk, approaches Osogo and engages him in conversation.
Red String teases Osogo, who expresses his displeasure at Red String's disruptive behavior. They discuss the rules of the Parliament of Owls and the responsibilities of different bird species. Red String tries to justify the actions of the Parliament, citing the need for protection from external threats. Osogo challenges this reasoning, questioning the fairness of the laws passed by the Parliament and its favoritism towards owls.
Their conversation escalates into a debate about power dynamics, with Osogo accusing the owls of oppression and Red String defending the Parliament's actions as necessary for survival. The tension between them grows as Osogo accuses Red String of using fear tactics to maintain control.
Tel Tel, a woodpecker, interrupts their conversation, expressing concern about Red String's intentions. Red String dismisses Tel Tel's suspicions and attempts to recruit her to spread propaganda about a new law called the Moonlight Bill. Tel Tel refuses, criticizing the Parliament's deceitful tactics.
As the act progresses, Red String manipulates Tel Tel with threats and coercion, ultimately forcing her to comply with his demands. Meanwhile, Arum Tidi, a ground hornbill, enters the scene and collaborates with Red String to further the Parliament's agenda through propaganda.
The act 1 of Parliament of Owls by Adipo Sidang, ends with Red String and Arum Tidi plotting to enforce the Moonlight Bill and silence dissenting voices, while Osogo continues to play his flute in defiance.