The arts industry in Ghana is experiencing a renaissance, and Dr. Ekua Ekumah, a senior lecturer at the School of Performing Arts at the University of Ghana, Legon, recently shared insights on how to make the sector more functional.
During an appearance on Joy FM’s entertainment analysis programme Showbiz A-Z, Dr. Ekumah emphasized the importance of starting from the grassroots to grow the industry. She suggested that cultivating a new theatre audience should begin in schools, with programs like those offered by Abibigromma and the National Theatre players.
Dr. Ekumah highlighted the impact of introducing courses like theatre management and project management to performing arts programs at the University of Ghana. These courses are equipping students with the skills they need to succeed in the industry.
As a theatre practitioner and scholar, Dr. Ekumah brings a wealth of experience to the table. She holds a BA (Hons) in Theatre Arts, an MFA in Theatre Arts, and a PhD in Theatre, Performance, Representation. She currently serves as the Artistic Director of Abibigromma and is an elected member of the Executive Committee of the International Federation of Theatre Research (IFTR).
One of Dr. Ekumah’s recent projects involved co-convening the IFTR conference at the School of Performing Arts. This event focused on the theme “The Stories We Tell- Myths, Mythmaking and Performance” and marked the first time the federation had come to West Africa in its 66-year history.
