The National Theatre of Ghana is facing a possible copyright infringement issue concerning an upcoming play set to be performed at their venue. In a letter dated May 28, 2024, George Apraku Dentu raised concerns that ‘The Legend of Aku Sika’, a play scheduled for June 1st, 2nd, 8th, and 9th, was based on his father’s novel ‘Aku Sika’.
According to Dentu, the play, written by Professor Martin Owusu, may have been inspired by his father’s book without proper permission. He stated that the producers of the play, ImageBureau and April Communication, did not reach out to him for authorization.
When contacted for a response, Dentu admitted that he had not read Professor Martin Owusu’s version of the story to confirm any similarities with his father’s work. However, George Quaye, the Team Lead for Image Bureau, explained that the story was derived from a folktale and not solely owned by Dentu’s father.
‘The Legend of Aku Sika’ is set to honor Professor Martin Owusu, a lecturer at the University of Ghana, known for his contributions to the acting and theatre arts community. The play features a talented cast including Mawuli Semevor, Edinam Atatsi, Arnold Asamoah Baidoo, Roland Adom, Elvis Crystal, and Adomaa.
The controversy surrounding the origins of the play adds an interesting twist to the upcoming performances at the National Theatre. Regardless of the outcome, the show promises to be a memorable and impactful tribute to the renowned author and lecturer.
