For most theatre lovers, Nii Commey’s “Where 2 or More Women Are Gathered” was not only intriguing but so captivating that they hardly noticed how six characters sustained their interest for 120 minutes in a pub undergoing renovation.
That has always been the trademark of Nii Commey’s storytelling style. His unique ability to create unprecedented drama from everyday themes and issues, with a transgenerational appeal.
“Where 2 or More Women Are Gathered” admittedly, was a splendid exploration of sisterhood, solidarity, and self-discovery.
The passionately layered play brings together the lives of three middle-aged women, reminiscing on the good old days, unearthing their ambitions and desires amid simmering tensions in a reunion that is both heartwarming and hilariously dramatic.
In partnership with Full Bouquet Entertainment, Handwriting Communication delivered a night of riveting theatre magic.
Staged on October 4 to coincide with International Customer Service Week, and to create awareness about affirmative action, the production was a high-energy celebration of womanhood, filled with laughter, witty banter, and the sharp brilliance of one of Ghana’s most organic contemporary playwrights.
The plot centres around Karoline with a K, who, amid a mid-life crisis, gathers her old school friends to celebrate her upcoming wedding.
Their reunion is filled with nostalgic joy, until the much-anticipated fiancé, fantasised as the “Arab Prince,” turns out to be an older man, far from the idealised vision Karoline had imagined.
The surprise unfolds like a perfectly timed punchline, adding complexity to the lighthearted moments.
The Playwright’s ingenuity extends beyond the main narrative, crafting intricate subplots with masterful precision.
For instance, Apuu, the unassuming bartender, dares to pursue the affections of his boss, Kissiwa, much to the annoyance of Bikini, the staunch feminist who defends women’s rights at every turn.
It is later revealed that Apuu is a young entrepreneur of international repute, disguised in search of true love.
These plots intertwine seamlessly, with every scene filled with suspense, humour, and intense revelations that kept the audience in stitches, cheering and engaging with the performance.
The production was a vivid blend of contemporary themes and traditional African elements, making it as relevant today as it was when first staged almost a decade ago.
It celebrates the complexities of women’s lives, friendships, and the unspoken burdens they carry while offering a fresh and vibrant take on love, ambition, and societal expectations.
Nii Commey’s script flows naturally, with an ear for real-life conversations that make the characters’ words impactful.
Every line feels intentional, advancing the plot or deepening the audience’s understanding of the character’s inner worlds.
The actors’ performances, brought these narratives to life in an unforgettable way.
Though minor technical hitches occurred at the beginning of the play, the story was too captivating for patrons to be distracted.
“Where 2 or More Women Are Gathered is more than a play”.It is an experience. It exposes the power of African theatre and its ability to inspire reflection on societal issues while entertaining with wit and humour.
At the core of the play’s charm is the use of humour, perfectly woven into the frame of the narrative, providing moments of comic relief while skilfully addressing deeper themes of love, strength, life, and choices.
Beneath the humour lies a reflection of the anxieties and conflicts many women face, particularly in their relationships, ambitions, and societal roles. The characters are brought to life with a realism that allows the audience to deeply connect with their stories.
Though the production has ended, the characters and themes remain alive in our society. The curtain may have fallen, but the resonance of this play will linger for a long time.
This is a production every theatre lover should see, for its narrative richness, cultural depth, and sheer entertainment value. An unforgettable evening at the National Theatre, indeed!
The play was partnered by Vanguard Assurance, MTN Momo, Corporate Support Services, DBS Schecks, BME Diagnostics, Coalition for Affirmative Action, Black Beauty and Black Beauty, and media partners were YFM, YTV, Happy FM, Evolution and Business Ghana.