Renowned Ghanaian playwright and CEO of Globe Productions, Latif Abubakar, has opened up on why he no longer stages his popular plays at the National Theatre.
Speaking on AtinkaTV’s Ghana Nie with Ama Gyenfa Ofosu-Darkwa, Abubakar revealed that persistent facility issues at the iconic venue pushed him to relocate to the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC).
“For the past 7 years, we’ve been talking about this National Theatre thing,” – he said. “I was struggling with my audience — no AC, broken seats, things not working. It just wasn’t nice.”
Abubakar, whose plays attract both local and international audiences, emphasized that poor maintenance of the theatre made it uncomfortable for patrons, including diplomats.
“We were left with no option but to move,” he explained, adding, “We pray that the current government will pay attention to the National Theatre and complete ongoing projects like the amphitheatre.”
Despite these challenges, Abubakar remains hopeful about the future of theatre in Ghana.
He acknowledged that while the general understanding of stage plays remains low, consistent efforts by key players like himself and Uncle Ebo Whyte have built a loyal following.
“When we promote our shows, we know our audience will show up,” he said.
He also expressed optimism about younger theatre producers who are beginning to stage their own plays.
“I get excited and help them willingly. It’s good for the industry — it brings more communication and awareness, and eventually, corporate Ghana will get involved.”
Latif’s latest play, Ghana Must Go – The Promised Land, is set to premiere this Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the AICC.
Contrary to the infamous “Ghana Must Go” bag that symbolizes hardship for many deported Ghanaian migrants, Abubakar’s play offers a fresh narrative.
“It’s a different side of the check-check bag. While it carries a negative connotation, our play is a positive one. I explore culture and our nation’s potential — how we can package it for the world,” he explained.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, 24th May, 2025
Time: First Show at 4 PM
Venue: Accra International Conference Centre
Tickets: GHS 200
Purchase shortcode: *447*1092#
Hotline: 027 502 7000
With his creative spark and strong industry leadership, Latif Abubakar continues to raise the bar for Ghanaian theatre.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu