Over the weekend, the National Theatre in Accra staged Beyond the Walls, a moving play that spotlighted the struggles of prisoners, ex-convicts, and flaws within Ghana’s justice system.
The emotionally charged performance brought many to tears, highlighting wrongful convictions, stigma, reintegration challenges, and the unfairness of the amnesty process.
Set in a prison, the play told stories of inmates like Lady Jay, who ends up in jail after stealing from her new church; an HIV-positive inmate finding unexpected support from fellow prisoners; Amina, who is rejected by her family after release; and Frema, who stole to feed her siblings.
Despite their circumstances, the play also portrayed the inmates’ dreams of becoming lawyers, journalists, and designers. A key theme was the bias in Ghana’s amnesty process, where political ties often determine who is freed.
Director Naa Ashorkor, addressing the audience after the show, announced that proceeds from ticket sales would fund a mental health conference for inmates and ex-convicts. The goal is to support reintegration and foster societal acceptance.
Beyond the Walls was produced by Image Bureau and April Communications, with support from Joy FM, the UN Family in Ghana, and Stanbic Bank.