Latif Abubakar's "The Second Coming of Nkrumah" Musical Headlines The African Festival
Accra is set to host a major cultural highlight this year with the global premiere of “The Second Coming of Nkrumah – The Musical” on December 29 at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC).
The highly-anticipated production is the headline event for this year’s African Festival (TAF), and experts are already predicting it could be Africa’s strongest contender for international recognition on Broadway and in London’s West End.
As Ghana solidifies its position as a leading cultural destination, fuelled by movements like December in GH and Detty December, the premiere is expected to draw massive crowds from Ghana, the diaspora, and the Caribbean.
The African Festival isn’t solely focused on the musical; it offers a diverse lineup including “Don Quixote Africa” – a unique adaptation of the Spanish classic – and a star-studded concert, a key attraction during the December festivities.
Written and directed by award-winning playwright Latif Abubakar, “The Second Coming of Nkrumah” dramatically retells the story of Dr Kwame Nkrumah’s symbolic return and vision for a liberated Africa. According to producers, the musical artfully blends Afrofuturist themes, vibrant African choreography, striking multimedia elements, and a full live African orchestral score.
Early preview shows have reportedly drawn significant paying audiences, and the production already boasts endorsements from prestigious organizations including UNESCO, PwC, and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts. “We believe this show has the potential to become Africa’s first truly global theatrical franchise,” said a representative from Globe Productions.
The African Festival, a three-day cultural immersion from December 27-29, provides a packed schedule for attendees. On December 27, audiences can enjoy “Don Quixote Africa” at 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm. December 28 is dedicated to the world premiere of “The Second Coming of Nkrumah – The Musical,” also with two showings at 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm. The festival culminates on December 29 with a concert featuring South African legend Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Grammy nominee Rocky Dawuni, Bessa Simons of Osibisa, highlife icon Amadzeba Nat Brew, Wiyala and the Adaha Band; the concert begins at 8:00 pm after gates open at 7:00 pm.
Beyond the performances, the AICC grounds will be transformed into a vibrant “festival city” with attractions like camel rides, Sahara-themed installations, life-size replicas of African landmarks – including the Pyramid of Giza and the Mandela Capture Site – a storytelling arena dubbed “The Den of History”, diverse food courts and craft markets, fun zones for children, and captivating live art exhibitions.
The festival is powered by Globe Productions with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts and the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA). Sponsors include ECOWAS Bank (EBID), MoMo, the Embassy of Spain-Ghana, and Joy Entertainment.
Industry analysts believe this strong partnership signals a substantial cultural investment. “The level of institutional backing demonstrates a strategic commitment to elevating Ghana’s cultural profile,” noted a leading tourism consultant.
Tickets for the festival are currently on sale – GHS 300 for a single day or GHS 750 for all three days. VIP passes are available for GHS 500. Patrons can purchase tickets by dialing 4471092 or contacting the Ticket Hotline at 0571 900 900.
This festival coincides with Ghana’s growing popularity as a destination for cultural tourism during the year-end holidays and the wider ‘Detty December’ movement. The event aims to provide a unique blend of entertainment, heritage, innovation, and Pan-African pride for both locals and visitors, showcasing the creative dynamism of Ghana and Africa as a whole.
As Accra prepares for another bustling festive season, all eyes are turning towards the AICC, where a new era in African theatre and storytelling is poised to begin.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE
