Exploring the dramatic techniques in the play The Marriage of Anansewa

Godfred Asare Yeboah; Isaac Horsu; Salomey Horsu Boakye

doi:10.51867/ajernet.7.4.2

Authors

Godfred Asare Yeboah University of Education,Winneba https://orcid.org/0009-0008-1195-3567
Isaac Horsu Department of Communication Studies, University of Professional Studies, Accra https://orcid.org/0009-0006-6337-4239
Salomey Horsu Boakye Department of Languages, Presbyterian College of Education, Akropong-Akuapem https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0614-5169

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/ajernet.7.4.2

Keywords:

Dramatics techniques, Humor, Suspense , foreshadow, The Marriage of Anansewa

Abstract

The stage is a picturesque representation of a dramatic act. Playwrights employ techniques to help directors in thrilling their stage performances. This study focuses on how the playwright uses dramatic techniques in projecting her message. Suspense and Humour are prominent dramatic techniques in Efua Sutherland's play The Marriage of Anansewa. These components are used by the playwright to amuse the audience, develop the plot, offer social criticism, and produce a distinctive fusion of contemporary drama and conventional storytelling. The study employed the relief and superiority theories to underpin the analysis through the qualitative research approach. The general atmosphere of the play foreshadows potential calamities, which heightens the dramatic tension. Sutherland skillfully manipulates the audience's emotions by combining amusement with an insightful examination of Ghanaian culture and human nature through the interaction of humour and suspense.

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Author Biographies

Godfred Asare Yeboah, University of Education,Winneba

Dr. Godfred Asare Yeboah is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Education, Winneba, esteemed for his extensive research and innovative contributions to theatre. Holding a PhD and an MPhil in Arts and Culture, Dr. Yeboah specializes in Directing, Devised Theatre, Community Theatre, African Theatre, Theatre History, and Acting. His practical achievements in the field are highlighted by his co-direction of Martin Owusu’s “The Legend of Aku Sika” and a robust portfolio of directed plays. Some of the notable productions under his directorial leadership include “The King Must Dance Naked” by Fred Agbeyegbe, “The Fall of Kumbi” by Mohammed Ben Abdallah, “Death and the King’s Horseman” by Wole Soyinka, “Corpses Comedy” by Nana Bayin Waternberg, “Blood and Tears” by Asiedu Yirenkyi, and “The Prisoners” by Chris Nwamuo. Dr. Yeboah’s dynamic approach to theatre continues to inspire his students and colleagues, fostering a vibrant environment for artistic exploration and excellence within the academic and cultural sectors.
Isaac Horsu, Department of Communication Studies, University of Professional Studies, Accra

Isaac Horsu has PhD in Literature in English from the University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, MPhil in English Language, University of Education, Winneba, Master of Arts in Contemporary English Studies, University of Ghana, Legon, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theatre Arts (Drama) from the University of Education, Winneba. He is a professional trained teacher with Cert “A” from Mount Mary College of Education, Somanya. He has two books to his credit, and articles published in international journals. He has been teaching English Language and Literature at H’Mount Sinai SHS, Akropong Akuapem since 2012. He lectured Communication Skills, and Literature related courses at the Evangelical Presbyterian University College, Ho from 2020 to 2025. He is currently an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Professional Studies, Accra and Knutsford University, Accra, lecturing Introduction to Literature, Critical Thinking, Scholarly Writing, Business Communication and Communication Skills. As a Master Trainer in GES, he trains facilitators and teachers who teaches Literature in English at the Basic Education level since it was introduced into BECE in 2016.

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