A week ago
Former President John Dramani Mahama has assured that he will construct a second National Theatre in the Ashanti Region of Ghana in his bid to boast Ghana's vibrant creative arts. This, he said when he visited the region, where he reiterated his commitment toward the development of arts and culture in the country.
According to Mahama, the new National Theatre will provide a focal point for performing arts, with ultra-modern facilities that would house many musicians, dancers, and actors, among a host of other creatives. He said the need for such a facility in the Ashanti Region has increased over the years, due to the numerous talented individuals and groups in the region. Mahama emphasized that a second National Theatre would provide an avenue for Ghanaian artists to showcase their arts and, importantly, contribute to the socio-economic transformation of the region through tourism attraction and creating jobs in the arts industry.
Speaking with the local media, Mahama said, "The creative industry in Ghana is part and parcel of our culture and identity. In undertaking this project, we preserve a tradition and at the same time develop that creativity and innovation which can offer an impetus toward economic development."
House-holding an enviable rich cultural heritage and history, the Ashanti Region is considered a key hub for Ghana's creative industry. The pledge by Mahama aligns with his long-time commitment to the arts, as evidenced during his time in office when he embarked on numerous projects to bring Ghanaian culture and artists closer to the people.
The proposed National Theatre would give reason for a modern setting for theatre performances, music concerts, dance shows, film, and other cultural events. Mahama also indicated his intention to engage consultations with the local stakeholders-the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, amongst others-as the project progresses, to ensure that the specific needs of the region's creative community are met.
Assuring Mahama of building a second National Theatre in the Ashanti Region has therefore gone down very well with local artists and cultural activists, who believe the facility will increase the visibility and contribution of Ghana's creative arts at both national and international levels.
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