Renowned Ghanaian playwright, Latif Abubakar, is set to make waves on the international stage with his adaptation of Five Hours with Mario.

Through his theatre company, Globe Productions Limited, Abubakar is bringing a uniquely Afrocentric version of Miguel Delibes' famous novel to life, showcasing Ghana’s vibrant theatre industry to the world.

Scheduled for Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at the prestigious Centro Cultural Casa de Vacas in Madrid, Spain, the monologue play will star celebrated Ghanaian actress Naa Ashorkor.

The performance, which promises to captivate Spanish audiences, is already 75% sold out and is expected to continue the success it garnered back home.

12,000+ Audience Success

Five Hours with Mario has enjoyed considerable success in Ghana, with previous performances at the Accra International Conference Centre in September 2022 drawing over 10,000 attendees.

Additional shows at the Red Clay Studios in Tamale and aboard the MV Dodi Princess in Akosombo brought in another 2,000 plus theatre lovers, proving its popularity across the country.

The Afrocentric adaptation not only highlights Ghanaian culture but aims to deepen Ghana-Spain relations through the arts, moving beyond traditional trade to foster cultural and artistic exchange.

Exploring Humanity Through a Ghanaian Lens

A reflection of the human experience, the play, infused with music, comedy, and drama, draws parallels between rural and urban life.

By blending traditional and contemporary arts, the production explores the authenticity and challenges of rural life in comparison to city living.

Abubakar's adaptation reimagines Delibes’ narrative through the character Dzidzor, who, after the death of her husband Mario, reflects on their lives together, bringing light to their conflicts and personal growth.

Abubakar’s passion for using theatre as a tool for development shines through in this project, as he continues to fulfil his dream of showcasing Ghana’s theatre on the global stage.

With Five Hours with Mario, he is once again pushing the boundaries of what Ghanaian theatre can achieve.

Global Ambition

Speaking about the production, Latif Abubakar expressed his excitement for its international debut.

"This production represents not just Ghana, but African storytelling on a global platform. We expect this to resonate not just in Spain but around the world."

Abubakar is no stranger to international success, having previously adapted two Spanish plays into Afrocentric versions.

He is also credited with staging Ghana’s first open-air theatre and a record-breaking virtual live play on COVID-19, which garnered an impressive 3.5 million live views.

Partnerships and Support

This production of Five Hours with Mario is a collaboration between Globe Productions and the Spanish Embassy in Accra, the Embassy of Ghana in Spain, and The African Festival, with support from Graphic Communications Group Ltd.

Abubakar’s adaptation of the classic Spanish novel promises to make a lasting impact in Spain and beyond, further cementing his status as one of Africa’s leading playwrights and cultural ambassadors.