‘Year of Return’ has been successful because of theatre, George Quaye asserts

Actor and CEO of Image Bureau, George Quaye has emphasised the indispensable role of theatre in the success of the government’s flagship Year of Return programme, asserting that without proper attention to the creative space, particularly theatre, the initiative would fail to achieve its intended impact.

Speaking on Graphic Showbiz’s X Dialogue Series under the topic “Is theatre getting relevant attention, George Quaye lauded the government’s efforts but underscored the need for greater recognition of theatre’s contribution.

He stated, “This current government’s most significant achievement is the Year of Return. Engaging diasporans to connect with their identity is all championed by theatre. Beyond the Return would have failed woefully if theatre was not involved. Taking people to dungeons and listening to oral traditions is all theatre.”

The Year of Return initiated in 2019 and later evolving into Beyond the Return, aims to attract foreigners, particularly from the black diaspora, to Ghana and for George Quaye, theatre’s pivotal role cannot be ignored in its success story.Highlighting the importance of the creative space, he added, “There is nothing that has identified us as a people more than theatre. It showcases our tradition; I don’t know where anybody can negate this. It is the best and we must appreciate the space.”

Expressing concern about the historical neglect of theatre, he continued to criticise the lack of consistent support for theatre from both past and present governments, stating, “Consistently, government past and present have not done nicely as far as theatre is concerned.”