From humble beginnings with his debut play at the National Theatre of Ghana in February 2009, Ghanaian playwright Latif Abubakar has now successfully staged his first production outside the borders of Ghana.

After his first stage play, Romantic Nonsense, sold out on February 14, 2009, the celebrated playwright, who caught the attention of the BBC World Service for his role in the resurgence of Ghanaian theatre, has once again set Ghana on the world stage.

His latest production, an Afrocentric version of Spanish novelist Miguel Delibes' Five Hours with Mario, was performed at the Centro Cultural, Casa de Vacas, in Madrid, Spain.

The play, a blend of music, comedy, and drama, captivated the audience with laughter and excitement. It creatively combined traditional and contemporary arts to explore the authenticity of rural life compared to urban existence, offering a powerful reflection of humanity.

Afrocentric Version of a Spanish Classic

Originally written by Nobel Prize winner Miguel Delibes, Five Hours with Mario portrays death as an ultimate and definitive milestone in human life. For the first time, the monologue play was adapted into a Ghanaian and Afrocentric version. It tells the story of Dzidzor, who, after the death of her husband Mario, reflects on their personalities and conflicts throughout their marriage while watching over his body.

In addition to showcasing Ghanaian culture and entertainment, the production aimed to deepen the Spain-Ghana relationship beyond traditional trade, emphasising arts and culture.

In an interview, Mr. Abubakar, who has successfully adapted two Spanish plays into Afrocentric versions, noted that this achievement did not come easily.

Recalling challenges he faced in his 15-year theatre career, such as low ticket sales and difficulties securing sponsorships, the playwright shared that he remained focused on his dream of elevating Ghana's theatre industry beyond Africa.

Despite the obstacles, Mr. Abubakar credits his success to the support of amazing partners and loyal patrons whose encouragement has kept him going. He also acknowledged the key role played by the immediate past Spanish Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Javier Gutierrez, in making the Madrid production possible through a Spain-Ghana collaboration.

With over 20 stage plays to his name, Latif Abubakar is also recognized for his virtual live play on COVID-19, which garnered 3.5 million views, and for pioneering Ghana’s first open-air theatre.

Expressing his gratitude to the Ghanaian Embassy in Spain, the Spanish Embassy in Ghana, and all who contributed to this milestone, Mr. Abubakar stated, "A new chapter has just begun, and we will surely take Europe by storm with world-class, Ghana-made productions."

Enduring Power of Cultural Exchange

Ghana's ambassador to Spain, Mr. Muhammad Adam, praised the play as a testament to the enduring power of cultural exchange.

He highlighted the timing of the production as especially fitting, emphasizing how theatre serves as a mirror reflecting society’s complexities, struggles, and triumphs.

Mr Adam described the play as a reminder of the importance of building bridges between nations beyond traditional diplomacy and trade.

He also noted that Ghana’s vibrant storytelling tradition, spanning generations, has shaped the nation's identity and continues to resonate with its people.

He expressed optimism that this play would mark the beginning of a fruitful partnership between Ghanaian and Spanish theatre industries.

Commending the playwright and his production team, Mr. Adam said, “Your artistry enriches our lives and broadens our perspectives of the world."

Over 12,000 Audience Members

The play, which was first staged at the Accra International Conference Center in September 2022, attracted an impressive audience of over 10,000 people.

Subsequent editions were performed at the Red Clay Studios in Tamale and onboard the MV Dodi Princess on the Volta Lake at Akosombo, drawing an additional 2,000-plus audience members.

The production was in partnership with the Spanish Embassy in Accra, the Ghanaian Embassy in Spain, and The African Festival, with support from Graphic Communications Group Ltd. and powered by Globe Productions Ltd.