Nollywood Legend Segun Arinze Arrives In Ghana Ahead Of The Black Star (The Teacher Of Africa) Stage Play
The Kotoka International Airport came alive yesterday as Nollywood veteran Segun Arinze arrived in Ghana ahead of his appearance in the highly anticipated stage production, The Black Star (The Teacher of Africa). Mr. Arinze, one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors with decades of experience across film, television, and theatre, was welcomed with a cultural display and media reception that highlighted Ghana’s renowned hospitality. His arrival marks a significant milestone in preparations for the historic production, which will feature him alongside celebrated Ghanaian stage actor Andrew Tandoh-Adote and a company of nearly 100 cast and crew members. Produced by Africa Arts Network in collaboration with the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and directed by Emmanuel Ato Ghartey, The Black Star (The Teacher of Africa) dramatizes the life, vision, and enduring legacy of Ghana’s first president and Pan-African icon, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Beyond theatre, the production is positioned as a cultural statement that celebrates unity and shared history across the continent. The play will premiere from 19th–21st September 2025 at the Commonwealth Hall Amphitheatre, University of Ghana, as part of activities commemorating Nkrumah’s birthday. It will return in March 2026 at the historic Black Star Square to coincide with Ghana’s Independence celebrations. Upon arrival, Segun Arinze expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration: “It’s a nice warm feeling, and it’s a good thing for us to collaborate, particularly with West African countries. We both share history as Ghanaians and Nigerians, and I look forward to a lovely performance. People will come and see what we are doing. I’m hoping that part of the family of Kwame Nkrumah will be in the hall to see this play.” Andrew Tandoh-Adote also highlighted the significance of Arinze’s involvement: “I’m happy with Africa Arts Network, who have come on board to make the theatre space even more vibrant. Bringing a powerful name like Segun Arinze is a strong sign for collaboration across the African continent.” Tickets are available through the shortcode 71333*10# or at egotickets.com. Early bird offers run until 7th September 2025.
Segun Arinze Joins Andrew Tandoh-Adote to Star in The Black Star (The Teacher of Africa) Theatre Production
The spirit of Pan-Africanism is set to come alive on stage as two of Africa’s finest actors prepare to share the spotlight in one of the most anticipated theatre productions of the year. Following the arrival of Segun Arinze in Ghana on Thursday, September 4, 2025, Ghana’s sensational stage actor Andrew Tandoh-Adote will join Nigeria’s legendary actor Segun Arinze in The Black Star (The Teacher of Africa), a powerful musical stage production celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Powered by Africa Arts Network in collaboration with the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, the production is scheduled to be performed at the University of Ghana, Commonwealth Hall Amphitheatre from 19th to 21st September 2025 to coincide with the commemoration of Nkrumah’s birthday. The Black Star is being directed by theatre director Emmanuel Ato Ghartey and brings together an ensemble of nearly 100 cast and crew with significant support from the Department of Music at the School of Performing Arts, University of Ghana. Andrew Tandoh-Adote, one of Ghana’s most commanding stage presences, is renowned for his versatility and depth in portraying complex characters. His involvement in this production signals the quality of performance that audiences can expect. He will be acting alongside Segun Arinze, a household name in African film and theatre whose decades-long career has made him an icon of Nigerian and continental cinema. Speaking on the collaboration, Kofi Adinkra, Executive Producer and Founder of Africa Arts Network, said: “Bringing together Andrew Tandoh-Adote and Segun Arinze in one production is a dream for African theatre. Their combined artistry and presence will make The Black Star a truly Pan-African celebration of our history and culture.” Tickets are now available through the shortcode *713*33*10# or online at Egotickets.com. Early bird tickets are available until 7th September 2025. Africa Arts Network welcomes corporate partnerships to position the creative arts as a force for cultural pride, tourism, and economic growth. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness history on stage—join us as we celebrate Ghana’s story and Africa’s spirit through the power of theatre.
Africa Arts Network’s HONEYMOON HOTEL Delivers a Bold, Brilliant, Powerful Shift for Ghana’s Theatre Industry
By Mustapha Yahaya Last weekend at the National Theatre, Accra, the curtains rose on one of the most highly anticipated productions in Ghana’s recent theatre history — Honeymoon Hotel. Produced by Africa Arts Network and directed by Shirley Frimpong-Manso, the play delivered a confident, stylish, and comically rich experience that signaled a thrilling new chapter in Ghanaian stagecraft. The production marked Shirley’s debut as a theatre director, and if Honeymoon Hotel is anything to go by, her transition from screen to stage is not only seamless but transformative. Adapted from the original script by playwright Stephen Yaw Oppong, the play unfolded as a layered romantic dramedy set in a luxurious hotel “where love lasts” — or at least pretends to. A Story of Love, Loss, and Life’s Ironies At the heart of the play is Konka Adusei, the hotel manager on the eve of his retirement and final divorce. His emotional disconnection contrasts sharply with the hotel’s raison d’être: a sanctuary for lovers, honeymooners, and hopeful romantics. From this ironic premise, the play builds a web of intersecting narratives involving staff, guests, exes, and unexpected secrets. The story is cleverly and beautifully adapted, balancing humour with heartbreak, satire with sincerity. It never leans too heavily into melodrama, yet every scene is weighted with emotional stakes. Whether it’s the cynical bellboy who’s seen it all, the clueless groom hiding more than cold feet, or the long-suffering receptionist entangled in office romance, each character feels lived-in and essential. A Star-Studded Cast That Shines The play features an ensemble of some of Ghana’s most admired actors. Joselyn Dumas was luminous, blending vulnerability and power in her portrayal of a woman confronting emotional truth. James Gardiner and Godwin Namboh offered comedic rhythm and tension, while Ama K. Abebrese delivered a measured and magnetic performance that drew spontaneous applause more than once. The legendary David Dontoh brought gravitas and emotional depth, while Andrew Tandoh-Adote, Jasmine Baroudi, Amanda Jissih, and rising star Gadede Segbefia held their own, turning supporting roles into standout moments. The chemistry across the cast was palpable — a testament to not only the talent involved but to Shirley’s strength in directing actors with emotional intelligence and precision. Direction, Design, and Detail Shirley Frimpong-Manso’s direction was controlled yet playful, allowing moments of improvisation and silence to breathe. Known for her cinematic storytelling, she brought an editorial eye to the pacing of scenes — every entrance felt intentional, every exit earned. There were echoes of her film background in the visual rhythm of the play, but it was clearly staged with theatre’s immediacy in mind. The set design transformed the stage into a believable boutique hotel lobby — elegant, minimal, and functional. Costume choices reflected class distinctions and mood subtly, while lighting and sound punctuated the performance without overpowering it. A Statement for the Industry by Africa Arts Network More than just a production, Honeymoon Hotel felt like a statement piece — about what is possible when Ghanaian theatre dares to match ambition with execution. The play attracted over 9,000 patrons across its three-day run, drawing audiences from theatre lovers to film fans and an online audience streaming live on AECINEMAX mobile app curious to see Shirley’s first theatre play. Africa Arts Network must be commended not just for the scale and polish of the event, but for its ability to attract new audiences to theatre by bridging cinema, stage, and celebrity in a way that still honoured the fundamentals of live performance. It’s this kind of programming that can shift the narrative around the commercial and artistic viability of the stage in Ghana. Final Verdict: A Five-Star Check-In Honeymoon Hotel is a landmark production — not because it is perfect, but because it is purposeful. It dares to be bold, funny, stylish, and heartbreaking all at once. It introduces a fresh directorial voice to theatre in Shirley Frimpong-Manso and proves that Ghanaian audiences are more than ready for nuanced, high-quality, original theatre. If this production signals the direction of where Ghanaian theatre is headed, then audiences and investors alike should take note: the curtain has only just risen. Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5) Reviewed at: National Theatre, Accra Dates: June 20–22, 2025 Presented by: Africa Arts Network Written by: Stephen Yaw Oppong Adapted & Directed by: Shirley Frimpong-Manso
Shirley Frimpong-Manso Makes Her Theatre Debut with ‘Honeymoon Hotel’ – Courtesy Africa Arts Network
Award-winning filmmaker and one of Africa’s most celebrated storytellers, Shirley Frimpong-Manso, is set to make her highly anticipated theatre directorial debut with the stage play “Honeymoon Hotel”, courtesy of Africa Arts Network. Adapted and directed by Shirley from the original script by the playwright Stephen Yaw Oppong, Honeymoon Hotel is scheduled to run at the National Theatre in Accra from June 20th to 22nd, 2025. The production is already creating major buzz in various circles for its intriguing title, star power, and cultural significance. A Stellar Cast Bringing the story to life is a powerhouse ensemble cast featuring Joselyn Dumas, James Gardiner, Ama K. Abebrese, Godwin Namboh, Andrew Tandoh-Adote, Gadede Segbefia, David Dontoh, Jasmine Baroudi, Amanda Jissih and a seamless blend of other outstanding stage and screen actors. About the Play Honeymoon Hotel is a witty and emotionally rich romantic dramedy set in a luxury hotel designed to celebrate everlasting love — but where not all is as romantic as it seems. As guests arrive with secrets, and the hotel staff navigate their own complicated relationships, chaos and comedy collide in unexpected ways. The play tackles themes of love, commitment, deceit, and second chances with humour. A New Chapter for Shirley Speaking on her transition from screen to stage, Shirley shared: “Theatre is raw, immediate, and alive in a way that is different from film. I’m incredibly excited to be making my theatre debut — it’s been such a thrilling experience diving into rehearsals, working closely with this amazing cast, and rediscovering storytelling in its purest form. Honeymoon Hotel is going to be sensational. It’s funny, it’s got a lot of drama and surprises, and I can’t wait for everyone to see what we’ve been cooking up.” Africa Arts Network, producers of recent theatrical successes including In the Chest of a Woman and You Play Me, I Play You, is once again pushing the boundaries of Ghanaian theatre with a fresh, contemporary production by combining high-quality storytelling, top-tier talent, and immersive production experience. “Honeymoon Hotel is more than a production — it’s a milestone intended to shift the market size and growth of the theatre industry upward,” said Kofi Adinkra, Founder of Africa Arts Network. “The introduction of Shirley Frimpong-Manso, one of Africa’s most renowned film directors, into the world of live theatre elevates the artistic standards of the production. It also reinforces the significance of creative crossover to industry growth. Alongside Shirley, the inclusion of notable screen actors to theatre, I believe will help break the barriers between mainstream film production and stage performances, attract new audiences, expand the theatre reach and re-establish theatre as a dynamic, commercially viable space for Ghanaian storytelling.” An Unforgettable Experience Expected to attract close to 9,000 audiences across the three days, Honeymoon Hotel is shaping up to be a cultural highlight of the year. With a compelling script, a celebrated director making her stage debut, and a cast of stars, this is theatre at its finest. Tickets & Information Tickets for Honeymoon Hotel are available through the ticket shortcode *713*33*10# and on https://egotickets.com/events/honeymoon-hotel. Follow Africa Arts Network on Instagram, Facebook, and X for behind-the-scenes updates, exclusive cast content, and show news. For partnerships, sponsorships, or group bookings, please contact: 0545246478
Trigmatic Makes His Theatre Debut in ‘IN THE CHEST OF A WOMAN’
Award-winning musician, Enoch Nana Yaw Oduro-Agyei, known professionally as Trigmatic is set to make his theatre debut in IN THE CHEST OF A WOMAN on Friday, February 28, 2025, 4 pm, at the National Theatre. Known for his evocative storytelling through music, Trigmatic now takes his artistry to the stage, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience for audiences. A multi-award-winning rapper, songwriter, and composer, Trigmatic has spent the past 15 years contributing to Ghana’s music landscape with four great albums. His contributions to the industry have earned him 11 national and international awards, including five prestigious VGMA wins, and an impressive 30 nominations, 19 of which came from the Ghana Music Awards. IN THE CHEST OF A WOMAN, a compelling adaptation of Efo Kodjo Mawugbe’s classic play, delves into themes of power, gender, and societal expectations. Trigmatic’s passion for African storytelling makes his transition to theatre a seamless one, adding depth and intensity to the production. His presence brings a fresh dynamic, fusing music and drama in a way that elevates the performance to new heights. Expressing his excitement about this new artistic venture, Trigmatic shared, “Theatre is a different kind of storytelling, and I’m thrilled to be part of this experience. Music has always been my way of connecting with people, and now, I have the opportunity to do that in a completely new way on stage.” Audiences can expect a unique fusion of drama and live performance, as Trigmatic’s signature energy and voice breathe new life into this amazing production. The Africa Arts Network, producers of the play, believe his involvement will make opening night truly special, creating a seamless blend of music and theatre. IN THE CHEST OF A WOMAN will run on February 28, March 1, and March 2, 2025, at the National Theatre. Tickets are available online—don’t miss the chance to witness Trigmatic’s debut in what promises to be a landmark moment in Ghanaian theatre.
Africa Arts Network announces the return of IN THE CHEST OF A WOMAN stage play
Africa Arts Network (AAN) is proud to announce the highly anticipated return of the stage play IN THE CHEST OF A WOMAN, set to take place on February 28th, March 1st & 2nd, 2025, with performances at 4 PM and 8 PM each day at the National Theatre, Accra. Last year, IN THE CHEST OF A WOMAN left a lasting impression on audiences, who were moved by its powerful storytelling, the raw emotion portrayed by the cast, and the captivating, immersive production design. However, the play’s influence extended beyond its audience, with industry professionals and arts advocates equally impressed. Written by the late Efo Kodjo Mawugbe and directed by Ken Fiati, IN THE CHEST OF A WOMAN is a thought-provoking exploration of gender, power, and identity, challenging societal norms while celebrating the resilience of women. The play delves into themes of leadership, legacy, and equality, making it a must-see for both new and returning audiences. As part of the International Women’s Day celebration, this masterpiece pays tribute to the strength, leadership, and invaluable contributions of women in our society. AAN looks forward to welcoming H.E. Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Ghana’s first female Vice President, and Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture & Creative Arts, as distinguished Special Guests of Honour. Building on last year’s overwhelming success, this year’s production promises to be even more extraordinary. “We are excited to stage IN THE CHEST OF A WOMAN once again. The response last year was phenomenal, and we are committed to delivering an even more refined, impactful, and unforgettable experience,” said Kofi Adinkra, Founder of Africa Arts Network. IN THE CHEST OF A WOMAN returns – bigger, bolder, and better with a refreshed creative direction, with new elements added to elevate the overall experience for the audience. The staging promises a seamless blend of captivating performances, intricate set designs, and a compelling musical score that will resonate with viewers long after the curtain falls. This year, audiences are in for an even more captivating experience, featuring an exceptional cast that includes Clemento Suarez, Jeneral Ntatia, Gadede Segbefia, Bill Asamoah, Edinam Atatsi and many other talented performers. IN THE CHEST OF A WOMAN is more than just a play; it is a celebration of African storytelling and artistic excellence. It stands as a testament to Africa Arts Network’s commitment to amplifying African voices, showcasing compelling narratives, and creating transformative cultural experiences. Get Your Tickets Now! Dial *713*33*10# or visit www.africaartsnetwork.com to purchase. For press inquiries or more information, contact: +233(0)545246478