Akinwale Sodade

EARLY LIFE

Akinwale Sodade, popularly known as Wale Rubber, emerged as a prominent figure in Nigeria’s performing arts scene with a deep passion for dance and entertainment. His early involvement in dance and choreography reflects a natural affinity for movement and performance that began shaping his career path. He honed his skills through hands-on experience in Nigeria’s vibrant entertainment industry, eventually building a reputation for versatility and professionalism. Wale Rubber’s journey into the spotlight was marked by dedication to the craft, transitioning from dance instruction to broader creative roles. His foundational work in dance education and performance laid the groundwork for his multi-faceted career, emphasizing discipline, creativity, and cultural expression in Nigerian arts.

CAREER

Akinwale Sodade, known professionally as Wale Rubber, is a multi-talented Nigerian choreographer, dance instructor, actor, creative director, producer, and all-round entertainer with over 15 years of experience in the industry. He serves as the Managing Director and Creative Director of WR Productions, where he oversees creative projects blending dance, film, and entertainment. Wale Rubber has been a key figure in major dance and performance events, including serving as Chief Judge for the Malta Guinness Street Dance Africa Championships and Dance Director for the popular reality show Dance With Peter. He is the Chief Dance Instructor for the Spirit of David Gospel Dance Club (SOD) and has instructed for the Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN). His choreography and creative direction have featured in high-profile productions such as Music Meets Runway, Red Bull Dance Your Style, The Gods Are Not to Blame, The King and I, and Joseph the Dreamer. He has also contributed to the Hip Hop World Awards (The Headies). As an actor, he has appeared in projects like I Am Number One. Beyond performance, Wale Rubber has built a strong business side to dance in Nigeria, working with over 3,000 organizations and agencies across Nigeria, Africa, and Europe. He runs dance and arts education programs in primary and secondary schools nationwide, fostering the next generation of talent. His collaborations include teaming up with musician Cobhams Asuquo on projects like “Fearless,” showcasing his versatility in blending dance with music and broader entertainment. Wale Rubber’s career highlights his ability to bridge traditional and contemporary dance forms, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s vibrant performing arts landscape through choreography, instruction, production, and on-screen work.

PERSONAL LIFE

Akinwale Sodade maintains a relatively private personal life. He is known for his collaborative spirit and mentorship in the dance community, often extending his passion for the arts into educational programs for young people. As a dedicated professional, Wale Rubber balances his high-profile career with a commitment to nurturing talent through school-based dance and arts initiatives across Nigeria. His approachable and professional demeanor has earned him respect among peers and collaborators. His public persona reflects a focus on excellence, creativity, and community impact in the performing arts.

Akinwale Sodade (Wale Rubber) is celebrated as a dynamic force in Nigerian entertainment, combining artistic talent with business acumen and educational outreach. His work extends beyond performance to mentorship and industry development, making him a respected figure among dancers, actors, and producers. As a multi-disciplined artiste, he continues to influence the dance and film sectors through WR Productions and his instructional roles. Wale Rubber’s contributions have helped elevate Nigerian dance on local and international stages, emphasizing creativity, professionalism, and cultural pride. His journey reflects a commitment to excellence and community building in the arts.