ASSITEJ Ghana has celebrated its first anniversary, marking a year of advancing theatre and performance as vital tools for the development of children and young people in the country. The milestone event formed part of a broader global movement led by ASSITEJ International and coincided with the International Day of Theatre for Children and Young People.
Held on March 20, 2026, at the Vivies Dance and Theatre Academy, the celebration brought together key players in Ghana’s creative arts space under the theme “Staging the Rights of Children, Today. Everyday.” The event highlighted the growing recognition of theatre as a transformative medium for education, expression, and advocacy for children’s rights.
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the academy, Vivian Boateng, described theatre as a powerful instrument for nurturing young minds. She noted that its impact on children has been “amazing and phenomenal,” emphasizing that participation in theatre enables children to express themselves freely while building confidence and creativity. According to her, theatre also plays a crucial role in developing communication skills, teamwork, and emotional intelligence—qualities essential for personal growth and future leadership.
Echoing these sentiments, stakeholders at the event underscored the importance of integrating performing arts into child development programmes. Education and arts advocates have long argued that creative disciplines, including theatre, contribute significantly to cognitive and social development, helping children better understand themselves and the world around them.
However, despite its benefits, challenges within Ghana’s theatre industry remain a concern. Renowned Ghanaian stage and screen actor, Andrew Tandoh-Adote, pointed to persistent issues such as negative public perception and limited infrastructure as barriers to growth. He stressed the need for increased investment and policy support to position theatre as a viable and impactful sector within the creative economy.
The event drew participation from several industry figures, including Deborah Akua Crentsil, founder and creative director of Siato Pod, alongside other practitioners and advocates committed to promoting theatre for young audiences.
As ASSITEJ Ghana enters its second year, organisers say the focus will be on expanding outreach, strengthening partnerships, and advocating for policies that support the integration of theatre into education systems. The anniversary celebration not only marked a milestone but also reinforced the growing call for the arts to be recognised as a key pillar in child development and national growth.
