The National Theatre in Accra marked the second year of its “Celebrating Our Own” initiative with an evening of tribute and celebration on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. The ceremony, held at 5 p.m., gathered theatre management, former employees, creative industry figures and media to honour James Ebo Whyte—known as Uncle Ebo Whyte—and nine other past staff members for their contributions to the institution and Ghana’s creative scene.
Among those recognised were Theresa Abui Tetteh, Humphrey Kuto, Bossman Amoako, Daniel Odartey Lamptey, Seth Otumfuo, Nii Ashikwei Kwabotswe, David Tawiah Amoo, Grace Djabaki Djabatey and Emmanuel Oblitey Tetteh. Executive Director Henry Herbert Malm praised the honourees’ dedication, calling Whyte’s work “monumental” and noting that his productions have shown theatre can “heal, educate, entertain and inspire” society. Malm urged current staff and practitioners to stay committed, adding, “Whatever you put into what you’re doing, others will watch you. So if you do it well, there will be a time when they’ll call you and say, thank you, good job.”
Uncle Ebo Whyte, Artistic Director and Lead Writer of Roverman Productions, thanked the National Theatre for the recognition and encouraged young people to take the arts seriously. He also pledged lifetime tickets to his stage shows for all the other honourees, a gesture that added warmth to the night. David Tawiah Amoo expressed gratitude, noting that he and his colleagues remain available to support the Theatre with their experience, advice and suggestions, and he commended those who have backed the Theatre over the years.
The event featured performances by the Ghana Dance Company, National Drama Company and National Orchestra, while partners such as GTB, Deliver Ghana, Friends of the National Theatre, Chance, Traffic Restaurant, Unilever and Verna Water were acknowledged. GTB supplied outfits for distinguished guests and donated clothing to award recipients, who also received citations, cash and product packages.
Amid speeches and music, the former staff let loose on the dance floor, drawing cheers and laughter and proving that the love for the performing arts endures. The National Theatre’s “Celebrating Our Own” gala underscored the lasting impact of those who have helped keep Ghanaian performing arts alive.
