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
Unlocking Audiences: Marketing Strategies for Theatre and Film
Unlocking Audiences: Marketing Strategies for Theatre and Film at the International Theatre and Film Conference 2024 The International Theatre and Film Conference (ITFC) 2024 was an inspiring and insightful gathering of creative professionals, industry leaders, and marketing experts. Held virtually, the conference centered on the theme, “Unlocking Audiences: Marketing Strategies for Theatre and Film,” and highlighted how marketing can play a transformative role in the success of both industries. Kofi Adinkra, founder of Africa Arts Network and Head of Business Development and Marketing at the National Film Authority, delivered the keynote address. Kofi’s dual perspective, as both a regulator and a private theatre practitioner, added an enriching layer to the discussion. His address, titled “Unlocking Audiences: Marketing Strategies for Theatre and Film,” provided actionable insights into audience engagement strategies tailored for the digital age. The Distinction Between Theatre and Film In his address, Kofi acknowledged the inherent differences between theatre and film in terms of their production and consumption. Theatre thrives on live, immediate interaction between the stage and the audience, creating an intimate and ephemeral connection. Film, on the other hand, is a more scalable medium that can reach millions and continue to engage audiences long after its release. Kofi pointed out that, while both industries aim to connect with audiences through storytelling, the marketing strategies for each must be tailored to their unique dynamics. Effective marketing is not only about promoting a product but also about building lasting connections between the art and the audience. The Crucial Role of Marketing in Theatre and Film Effective marketing, Kofi emphasised, is vital for several reasons: Visibility and Awareness: Without it, even the most well-crafted productions can go unnoticed. Marketing ensures that productions reach a wider audience, maximizing ticket sales or viewership. Financial Stability: Marketing helps ensure a return on investment by attracting a large audience. The absence of marketing can lead to financial losses, potentially jeopardising future productions. Brand and Industry Reputation: A strong marketing strategy builds brand recognition and audience loyalty, both crucial for the long-term growth of theatre and film companies. Without marketing, Kofi explained, productions risk falling into obscurity, leaving creative efforts unrewarded and future opportunities uncertain. Strategies for Engaging Audiences in the Digital Age Kofi shared several effective marketing strategies for unlocking and engaging audiences in the digital age. He outlined key ideas, including: Leveraging Technology: Digital platforms like social media have become essential tools for reaching and engaging audiences. Kofi emphasised the importance of interactive campaigns, behind-the-scenes content, and live-streaming to create deeper connections with viewers. Community Building and Audience Loyalty: Building a loyal audience base is vital for both theatre and film. Offering loyalty programs, membership schemes, and post-performance interactions can keep audiences engaged and coming back for more. For film, Kofi highlighted exclusive screenings and fan events as ways to maintain audience interest beyond the initial release. Data-Driven Marketing: The use of data analytics to track audience preferences and behaviours allows for more targeted marketing efforts. Understanding what resonates with viewers enables producers to refine their content and marketing strategies. Creating Stories That Resonate: Kofi underscored the importance of storytelling in connecting with audiences. Both theatre and film, he noted, must tap into local cultural experiences and tell stories that resonate on personal and emotional levels. Conference Highlights Dr. Rashida Resario, a Senior Lecturer and Creative Industries Researcher, provided insightful commentary on the structural challenges within the creative industry, such as taxation and infrastructure, and emphasised the need for collaboration between private and public sectors to unlock the industry’s full potential. Star Botchway, a Product Manager, spoke on the critical role of digital marketing, highlighting how social media and data analytics can drive audience engagement. His presentation focused on actionable techniques for using digital platforms to maximise audience reach. Chris Alonzo, Marketing Manager of the Atlanta Fringe Festival, shared his experiences working with fringe theatre and film productions, stressing the importance of grassroots marketing and the power of community-driven initiatives. Conclusion: Bridging the Gap Between Art and Audience In concluding his keynote, Kofi reflected on the future of theatre and film, emphasising that unlocking audiences requires a multi-faceted approach that embraces technology, storytelling, and audience engagement. While challenges such as taxation and infrastructure development remain, strategic marketing can create pathways for growth, making theatre and film accessible and exciting for new audiences. The ITFC 2024 left attendees with a clear understanding that marketing is not just a tool for promoting productions, but a bridge between art and the audiences who seek to engage with it.
Africa Arts Network Launches Play: You Play Me, I Play You
Africa Arts Network Launches Ghana-Nigeria Stage Play, ‘You Play Me I Play You Accra was abuzz with excitement as the much-anticipated stage play You Play Me I Play You was officially launched on September 5, 2024, at the Accra Tourist Information Centre (ATIC). Accra was abuzz with excitement as the much-anticipated stage play You Play Me I Play You was officially launched on September 5, 2024, at the Accra Tourist Information Centre (ATIC). Produced by Africa Arts Network (AAN), this socio-cultural satire is a Ghana-Nigeria collaboration that promises to captivate audiences with its blend of humour, drama, and thought-provoking commentary on the cultural dynamics between the two nations. The play, written by the late legendary Ghanaian playwright Efo Kodjo Mawugbe, will be staged at the National Theatre on November 8, 2024, and Bukom Arena on November 9. Directed by Fiifi Coleman, the production features an impressive cast including Ghana’s Jeneral Ntatia, Clemento Suarez, and Nigeria’s Brain Jotter. The Vision Behind Africa Arts Network Speaking to Kofi Adinkra, founder of Africa Arts Network (AAN), he emphasised the importance of cross-cultural collaboration in the arts. “Africa Arts Network was created to promote and elevate African arts by fostering partnerships across the continent,” Kofi stated. “This production exemplifies our vision of creating a unified space where the diversity of African cultures is celebrated through storytelling. We are excited about this collaboration because it’s more than just entertainment—it’s a cultural exchange that highlights the similarities and differences that make Africa unique.” He added, “Our aim at AAN is to establish a platform that empowers African artists, enabling them to showcase their talents not just locally but internationally. This play is a step in that direction, bringing together the best of Ghanaian and Nigerian talent to explore issues that resonate across the continent.” Insights from Director Fiifi Coleman Fiifi Coleman, a renowned figure in Ghanaian theatre, shared his excitement about directing You Play Me I Play You. “The play is not just a satirical commentary; it’s a celebration of our shared experiences as Africans. The chemistry between the Ghanaian and Nigerian cast is electric, and I believe audiences will be thrilled by the authenticity and humour with which these cultural issues are portrayed.” Coleman also emphasised that the play offers more than just entertainment—it provides a space for reflection on socio-political matters through the lens of comedy. “Our goal is to stimulate conversations around unity, diversity, and understanding between our two nations,” he added. Brain Jotter: “A Unique Opportunity” Brain Jotter, one of Nigeria’s biggest comedic talents, expressed his enthusiasm about being part of this groundbreaking production. “When I got the call to be part of You Play Me I Play You, I knew it was going to be something special,” he said. “It’s a unique opportunity to share a stage with some of the most talented actors from Ghana and bring our cultures together in such a fun and meaningful way. The laughter and lessons in this play are things everyone can relate to.” Brain Jotter’s involvement adds a fresh dynamic to the cast, bridging the gap between the Ghanaian and Nigerian entertainment scenes, while also expanding the play’s appeal to a wider audience. Trigmatic on Brand Partnerships Nana Yaw Oduro (Trigmatic), the head of Brand and Partnerships at Africa Arts Network, also shared his thoughts on the production. “This is a monumental collaboration that aligns with our goal of pushing African arts beyond borders. Our role at AAN is to create partnerships that not only benefit the arts but also bring value to the brands that support us. We believe You Play Me I Play You will be a success because it resonates with so many people across the continent, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of that.” Trigmatic added, “With this production, we’re showcasing what’s possible when African creatives come together. It’s an exciting time for the arts, and we’re encouraging brands and partners to join us in this cultural movement.” A Must-Watch Theatre Event With its star-studded cast, masterful direction, and rich cultural narrative, You Play Me I Play You is poised to become one of the standout theatre productions of 2024. Scheduled for November 8 and 9, the play will offer audiences an unforgettable experience at two iconic venues: the National Theatre and Bukom Arena. Tickets are priced at GHS 250 for VIP and GHS 150 for regular admission, ensuring accessibility to a wide range of theatre lovers. As anticipation builds, You Play Me I Play You is more than just a play—it’s a celebration of African unity, cultural pride, and the power of storytelling. This is a must-see production for anyone looking to experience the best of African theatre. How to Get Tickets Tickets can be purchased via shortcode 71333*10# or by calling 054 123 4586. Don’t miss out on what’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting theatrical productions of the year.
The Harmonious Chorale-Ghana to perform in the USA
We are thrilled to announce our partnership with the Global Arts Network. This collaboration will bring new opportunities for our artists and expand our reach internationally.
Nana Fynn 2lock launches single on August 24
We are thrilled to announce our partnership with the Global Arts Network. This collaboration will bring new opportunities for our artists and expand our reach internationally.
AAN Launches New Talent Management Program Date
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Successful Theatre Production: AAN’s “Voices of Africa”
Our latest theatre production, “Voices of Africa,” was a resounding success! Read about the highlights, audience reactions, and future plans for the production.