Francis Tetteh Nutakor, a celebrated Ghanaian theatre director and producer, was named Comic Director of the Year at this year’s Ghana Comedy Awards.

This award recognises his exceptional contributions to comedy in 2024.

In the year under review, he directed a number of successful stage plays, including One Gallon, a socially relevant piece that skillfully blended humor with critical reflection; Our Day, a heartfelt production that struck an emotional chord with audiences; and Kavod UK, a culturally rich collaboration that showcased Ghanaian artistry on an international stage, for Nacee.

In addition to his theatrical work, Nutakor produced and directed several high-profile stand-up comedy specials in 2024. Sugar Mummy of Accra, a special for comedian Jacinta, humorously explored modern relationships in Ghana’s urban setting, while Standing Strong, a special for comedian Okokobioko, offered a powerful mix of comedy and motivation showcasing Nutakor’s ability to inspire as well as entertain through direction and production. He also directed Romanus Incomplete VI, the latest installment in a popular comedy series by Foster Romanus that remains a favorite among local audiences.

His influence extended even further with the organisation of Ghana’s first stand-up comedy festival, Comic and Comedy, held in July 2023 at the National Theatre. This groundbreaking event brought together veteran comedians like Fritz Baffour and Mikki Osei Berko with younger talents such as Foster Romanus, Clemento Suarez, Jacinta, OB Amponsah, Lekzy Decomic, Jeneral Ntatia, Afia Barcelona, Putogo, and Yaa Anima. The festival was designed to bridge generational gaps in comedy, celebrate the genre’s evolution, and spotlight emerging voices in the industry.

Nutakor is also an outspoken advocate for the development of Ghana’s theatre and creative sectors. He has consistently called for greater government support, citing challenges such as high taxation and insufficient infrastructure as major obstacles facing theatre practitioners.

His advocacy, along with his creative work, has positioned him as a key figure in shaping the future of Ghanaian entertainment. With his continued commitment to quality storytelling and cultural preservation, Francis Tetteh Nutakor stands out as a driving force in both comedy and the broader performing arts landscape.