Africa-Press – Ghana. In response to calls for a rerun after multiple staging, “The gods are not to blame”, a theatrical piece, makes an encore at the National Theatre in a special staging.
Directed by George Quaye and produced by Image Bureau in partnership with April Communications and the National Theatre, this special staging seeks to honour the legacy and memory of theatre stalwart Mawuli Semevo.
Fused with music, dance, laughter, and suspense, the play explores humanity’s futile attempts to escape destiny while seamlessly blending a tragicomedy structure with Yoruba cultural elements.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Mr Emmanuel Ato Ghartey, the Assistant Director, said the play, which has been staged over eight performances in December 2023 and March 2024, received strong critical and audience acclaim, prompting a re-run this December.
He said they had received overwhelming requests from theatre patrons who either missed the initial runs or sought to experience it again.
Paying tribute to the memory of Mawuli Semevo, he explained that patrons paid particular commendations to Mr Semevo’s commanding portrayal of Baba Fakunle and David Dontoh’s evocative narration in the previous stagings.
Mr Ghartey, who doubles as the narrator for the December 2025 re-run, stepping into the shoes of veteran actor David Dontoh, said the responsibility comes with pride and honour.
“I am privileged to step into the shoes of a father and mentor, and I don’t take it lightly,” he said.
He said besides honouring Mr Semevo, the December 2025 re-run will feature fresh creative enhancements designed to elevate the visual and auditory experience while maintaining the originality of the play.
Synopsis
Originally written by celebrated Nigerian Novelist, Ola Rotimi, the play tells the story of Odewala, whom the gods prophesied will kill his father and marry his mother.
As fate unfolds and prophecies are fulfilled, the protagonist, Odewale, becomes ensnared in a web of destiny, ultimately confronting the consequences of his actions.
The core cast includes Andrew Adotey Tandoh and Naa Ashorkor, who play the roles of Odewale and Queen Ojuola, respectively, alongside William Ashong as Baba Fakunle, stepping into the shoes of Mawuli Semevo.
At the heart of the play are timeless themes of fate versus free will, human pride and the moral complexities surrounding prophecy.
Set against the backdrop of the National Theatre, the production, which would combine culturally rich design, dramatic lighting and immersive staging to deepen its emotional impact, will run on December 17 and 18, 2025, at 7:00pm, and on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 5:00pm and 8:00pm, respectively.
Tickets for the performances are on sale and can be purchased via 71446# at GHC250 single and GHC400 double.
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