Film, theatre collabo key to industry growth -Shirley Frimpong - Manso
As she gears up for her highly-anticipated theatre debut, Honeymoon Hotel, scheduled for the National Theatre from Friday, June 20 to Sunday, June 22, Ms Frimpong Manso believes a partnership between the two could be the game changer for the arts scene in Ghana.
“I truly believe that collaboration is the magic ingredient that can attract new audiences and infuse our industries with fresh ideas and financial backing," Ms Frimpong Manso shared in an interview with Graphic Showbiz on Monday, June 9.
“With an increasing interest in stage performances in recent years, the Ghanaian arts scene is ripe for innovation and partnership,” she added.
She explained artistes and producers could tap into potential audience by creating engaging content, promoting their work, and leveraging collaborations with other art forms.
Highlighting the immense potential of collaborative efforts, she noted that bridging the gaps among theatre, film and music can enrich storytelling, elevate production quality and expand market reach:
“By investing in infrastructure, training and mentorship, as well as nurturing collaborations, we can allow our stage plays to thrive and gain international visibility.
“For instance, while drawing from international trends, Ghanaian stage plays can gain global recognition by showcasing unique African stories, collaborating with international artists, and leveraging digital platforms,” she said.
“Stage plays can showcase Ghanaian and African cultures, traditions, and experiences, providing a platform for local stories to be told.
“As a creative, I see myself playing a role in promoting African stories and collaborating with other artistes to push the boundaries of Ghanaian theatre,” she stated.
Honeymoon Hotel, which explores, commitment and second chances, features a star-studded cast, including Andrew Tandoh-Adote, Joselyn Dumas, James Gardiner and Ama K. Abebrese. (Read EDITOR’S LENS: Ghana theatre’s on fire)
The play delves into relatable themes, promising a delightful mix of humour, and heartfelt moments that will resonate with audiences from all walks of life.
As she embarks on this new journey into theatre, Ms Frimpong Manso expresses an invigorating sense of excitement and purpose: “This production marks a significant chapter in my career. It allows me to explore the potential of stage storytelling and apply my filmmaking expertise in an entirely new context.”
Frimpong - Manso is not just stepping onto the stage with Honeymoon Hotel, she is paving the way for a creative renaissance within Ghana's vibrant arts community.
Her vision is clear: to highlight Ghana's rich cultural heritage through powerful storytelling and international collaborations.
Stressing on the importance of storytelling in promoting Ghanaian culture and traditions, she stated, "Theatre can be a dynamic platform where local stories are shared, ensuring that our rich heritage shines not only nationally but also on the global stage."