The Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Ghana left a lasting impression with its moving stage production of The Women of Owu, performed on August 4 and 5, 2025, at the E.T.S. Drama Studio on the Legon campus.
Directed by Level 400 Theatre Arts student Stanhope Jacob Williams, the play formed part of the mandatory Production Participation course, a capstone project for final-year students. Williams, who specialises in directing, described his choice as both purposeful and symbolic.
“The characters in the play, with songs of defiance, stood their ground and showed up strongly for themselves,” he explained. “Their men were killed, their city destroyed, yet the women held onto their traditions. That’s why I chose this play.”
Originally penned by celebrated Nigerian playwright Femi Osofisan, The Women of Owu is a poetic post-war tragedy that centres on the anguish, strength, and survival of women after the brutal destruction of their city. The play reflects themes of cultural preservation, grief, and resilience.
For Williams, directing the piece was both a creative and managerial journey, especially since it was a ticketed event.
“The turnout was great,” he said. “Directing gave me the space to lead artistically while learning to manage different personalities.”
Dr. Abdul Karim, lecturer and coordinator of the Level 300/400 Production Participation course, supervised the production and stressed its importance in preparing students for life beyond the classroom.
“Theatre is a collaborative art form. It teaches discipline, teamwork, and offers valuable networking opportunities,” Dr. Karim said. “Students must take it seriously.”
Chorus leader and cast member Judith Mensah also reflected on her experience in the play, which she described as both intense and rewarding.
“My role was to inspire the women of Owu to remain hopeful and strong,” she shared. “I learned a lot through this production—especially about building confidence and commanding the stage.”
Audience members praised the production for its emotional depth, strong performances, and celebration of African storytelling. The staging of The Women of Owu served as a testament to the power of student creativity and the enduring relevance of African classics.
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Story by Juliana Okertchiri | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Kelvin B. Annor-Yeboah
