Accra: Renowned Ghanaian playwright and figure in theatre arts Dr. Mohammed ben Abdallah has died. Dr. Abdallah passed away on Thursday in Accra and will be laid to rest today, Friday, after Jumu'ah prayers in accordance with Islamic funeral rites in Kumasi.
According to Ghana News Agency, a Facebook post by his daughter, Hajia Akosua Abdallah, announced the passing of her father, highlighting his wisdom, humility, and unwavering faith. She expressed deep sorrow and requested prayers for his forgiveness and peace in the afterlife. The 3-day Dua will also be held in Kumasi, with further details about the Accra arrangements to be shared later.
Dr. Abdallah, born on April 25, 1944, in Kumasi, began his educational journey by obtaining a Teacher's Certificate 'A' from Wesley College, Kumasi. He then pursued Drama and Theatre Studies at the University of Ghana, Legon, earning a diploma. His academic path led him to the United States, where he obtained an MFA in Theatre Arts from the University of Georgia in 1976 and a PhD in Theatre Arts from the University of Texas at Austin in 1980.
Widely acknowledged as one of Ghana's foremost playwrights, Dr. Abdallah significantly contributed to the establishment of the National Theatre of Ghana. He was instrumental in supervising its construction, establishing its organizational framework, and ensuring the presence of resident companies such as the National Drama Company, the National Dance Company, and the National Symphony Orchestra.
Dr. Abdallah also served as Head of the School of Performing Arts at the University of Ghana. His theatrical style uniquely combined traditional African performance with European elements, often reflecting postcolonial themes.
Beyond academia, Dr. Abdallah provided his expertise as a World Bank consultant to the Gambian government, focusing on Capacity Building Programmes for the National Council for Arts and Culture. In the political arena, he served under the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) as Secretary for Education and Culture during the 1980s and 1990s.
Dr. Abdallah's legacy includes notable works such as 'The Rail of Mallam Llya', 'Verdict of the Cobra', 'Slaves', 'The Fall of Kumbi', among others.
