Entertainment
National Theatre thrills patrons with ‘EFU PƆNKƆ’
Theatre enthusiasts who flocked the National Theatre of Ghana last week were treated to a total Theatre Production dubbed “EFU PƆNKƆ”.
‘EFU PƆNKƆ’ is a folk story based on the music composed by the late Bob Cole entitled, “Ɛdwen ɖɛɛ ɛre yɛ me”.
This production used the folk story as a metaphor in total theatre to highlight challenges facing the country, including illegal mining popularly known as “Galamsey” which has been identified as the major source of water pollution.
The Theatre showed how sediments deposited into water bodies during illegal mining with heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic, and lead which is toxic to aquatic life and humans.
The educative performance also demonstrated complications associated with Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
The act , mostly carried out on young girls and adolescents, is influenced by a mix of sociocultural factors within families and communities.
It also looked at open Defecation, improper disposal of waste, littering of plastics and sand winning which are major threat to the environment.
Another issue that was dramatized was school dropouts and the consequences on the children.
These include premature sexual activity, early pregnancy, delinquency, crime, violence, and drug abuse.
It also highlighted different categories of continuous conflicts such as chieftaincy succession, and land disputes , which sometimes deteriorate into serious violence conflicts to destabilize the peace of the nation.
The production had a blend of percussive dance styles and dramatised sketches with narrations incorporated with aesthetic melodies.
It was presented by the National Theatre of Ghana through its residence groups – National Dance Company, National Drama Company, and National Symphony Orchestra, and in collaboration with the Ghana Concert Party.
The production is part of efforts the National Theatre is making to fulfill its mandate, which is to develop and promote the performing arts in Ghana.
Each year, the three resident groups come together to produce a piece that is steeped in the Abibigro concept, with a high standard of artistic expression, which focused on projecting the Nation’s positive cultural values.
By Joyce Bekoe
Ghanaian gospel artiste, Jesse Delali, has released his latest single, ‘Hallelujah’, a powerful praise anthem that urges believers to lift the banner of worship and give glory to the King of kings.
Rooted in gratitude, surrender, and heartfelt adoration, ‘Hallelujah’ is more than a song; it is a declaration of God’s greatness and a reminder that He deserves the highest praise not only because of His mighty works, but simply because of who He is.
The upbeat tempo contemporary church praise jam blends energetic rhythms with a worshipful message, making it a perfect sound for Sunday services, personal devotion, and moments of collective celebration in the presence of God.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, Jesse Delali describes ‘Hallelujah’ as a call for every believer to exalt God regardless of circumstances.
“God deserves our praise at all times. ‘Hallelujah’ is a declaration of gratitude and surrender-a reminder that our worship is not only tied to what God does for us, but who He is,” he explains.
The production of ‘Hallelujah’ was handled by renowned music producer Junior Boateng of Newgenn Studios, who crafted a rich and energetic soundscape that complements the song’s celebratory message.
The official music video, shot and edited by Kwame Aboagye of Envision Media, brings the song’s message to life through captivating visuals recorded live in Ottawa, Canada that reflect the joy, passion, and spiritual atmosphere behind the praise anthem.
With ‘Hallelujah’, the drummer turned singer continues his mission of creating music that inspires faith, encourages worship, and draws hearts closer to God, following his recent release of ‘For All You’ve Done’
Renowned Ghanaian highlife musician, Pozo Hayes, has received an electric mobility scooter from the Nat Arthur Foundation –Tower of Hope to enhance his mobility, independence and overall well-being.
The presentation, which brought together family members, friends and well-wishers, showed the Foundation’s commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals and improving their quality of life.
The Spokesperson for the Foundation, Ms Philomina Kuntum Blankson, said the donation was part of the Foundation’s mission of restoring hope and transforming lives through acts of compassion and community support.
According to her, the Foundation recognised the challenges faced by some vulnerable persons and remained committed to providing practical assistance to improve their daily lives and preserve their dignity.
Ms Blankson said the foundation has over the years undertaken various charitable interventions aimed at improving lives through healthcare support, community development projects and humanitarian assistance.
“The donation to Pozo Hayes forms part of its broader efforts to promote dignity, inclusion and social support for persons facing mobility and other life challenges,” she added.
Receiving the scooter, Pozo Hayes expressed gratitude to the Nat Arthur Foundation and all those who contributed towards the initiative.
He described the gesture as life-changing, saying the mobility scooter would greatly improve his movement and enable him to carry out his daily activities with greater ease and confidence.
The veteran musician also commended the Foundation for its kindness and concern for the welfare of vulnerable members of society.
Dignitaries who attended the event were Prophet King Solomon, Nana Offeh Sebede3 Adeamuoduro Trimud3 Kaakyire Kwame Appiah I, Bosomtwe Asaman Manhene Benkumhene/Detiesohene of Lake Bosomtwe, associates of the musician.
