Accra’s National Theatre is set to host ‘Beyond the Walls,’ a powerful and thought-provoking stage play that delves into the harrowing experiences of women behind bars.
Scheduled for 29th and 30th March, with two showings each day at 4 PM and 8 PM, this production promises to shed light on the untold stories of female prisoners, some of whom are victims of circumstances rather than criminals.
Produced by Image Bureau and April Communications Ltd., in partnership with the UN Family in Ghana, led by the Joint United Nations Program on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS), ‘Beyond the Walls’ is written by George Quaye and directed by celebrated actress and broadcaster Naa Ashorkor Mensah-Doku.
The play aims to challenge societal perceptions of incarcerated women while exposing the emotional and psychological toll of their imprisonment.
A heart-wrenching story of betrayal
Among the many stories highlighted in the play is that of a young woman whose life takes an unexpected turn after what was supposed to be a fun holiday in Ghana. She had come to enjoy the December festivities, fell in love, and trusted the man who had promised her forever.
On her way back home, he gave her a suitcase filled with beautifully folded kente fabric, supposedly for his mother. She inspected a few of the pieces and found them safe. After all, she was returning soon, and they had plans to get married—why wouldn’t she trust him?
But her dreams were shattered at Kotoka International Airport. Concealed within the fabric were illegal drugs. In an instant, she went from being a carefree traveler to a convicted felon.
His phone was off. He had disappeared. Now, the only person who knows her whereabouts is her father. To the rest of her family, she has taken up a demanding job that keeps her traveling across Africa.
Her story is not unique. Many women behind bars are victims of deception, poverty, or unfortunate circumstances, yet they are often judged without understanding their reality.
Beyond the stage: A call for awareness
Beyond the Walls goes beyond entertainment; it is a call to action. With support from organisations such as UNICEF, Stanbic Bank, and key media partners like Joy FM, Citi FM, and Graphic Showbiz, the play seeks to spark dialogue on justice reform, rehabilitation, and the need for greater awareness of the conditions within female prisons.
This initiative has a profound purpose: a portion of its proceeds will support the completion of a rehabilitation block at Nsawam Prison, providing inmates with vital psychological care to help them rebuild their lives after release.
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