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The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has held high-level discussions with renowned playwright and director Latif Abubakar on leveraging theatre as a strategic tool for Ghana’s global image, cultural diplomacy, and tourism promotion.
The meeting, which took place at the Jubilee House, focused on Abubakar’s upcoming major production, “The Second Coming of Nkrumah – The Musical,” an ambitious theatrical work that connects Ghana’s revolutionary history with its contemporary ambitions.
The engagement reflects a growing appreciation within the Presidency of the creative arts as a powerful form of soft power, capable of promoting national unity, boosting tourism, and reinforcing Ghana’s leadership role across Africa.
At the centre of the discussion was Abubakar’s latest production, which imaginatively portrays the return of Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, to today’s African political and social landscape. Rather than a simple historical retelling, the musical explores how Nkrumah might confront present-day challenges such as economic independence, youth responsibility, and the quest for continental unity.
The production is designed as a visually and musically rich experience, combining a live orchestra, dynamic African choreography, and Afrofuturist aesthetics. Through immersive multimedia storytelling, the play seeks to re-examine the unfinished vision of Pan-Africanism for a modern, digital audience.
Mr Abubakar explained that the production is intended not only as entertainment but also as a cultural vehicle that aligns with The Black Star Experience, Ghana’s flagship cultural and tourism initiative. He noted that theatre has a unique ability to humanise history, inspire national pride, and attract global interest in Ghana’s story.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah praised the initiative, stressing the increasing importance of the creative arts in shaping international perceptions of Ghana. He described culture as a vital national asset for strengthening both global respect and internal cohesion.
During the meeting, Mr Abubakar formally invited the Chief of Staff and members of the Presidency to attend the global premiere, offering national leadership an opportunity to witness Ghanaian theatre operating at an international standard.
2025 African Festival: A Three-Day Cultural Celebration
“The Second Coming of Nkrumah – The Musical” will headline the 2025 African Festival, a three-day cultural event scheduled for late December.
Festival Schedule:
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December 28: Opening performance of “Don Quixote Africa,” a local adaptation of the classic story.
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December 29: Main event — “The Second Coming of Nkrumah – The Musical,” at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC), with shows at 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
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December 30: Grand closing concert featuring African music stars including Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Rocky Dawuni, Wiyaala, Bessa Simons, Amandzeba Nat Brew, and The Adaha Band.
Beyond performances, the festival will feature cultural exhibitions, art markets, and food courts, offering a full Black Star Experience for locals and members of the African diaspora.
Source: joynews
