The St. Anthony’s Anglican Church in Abelenkpe, Accra, has launched “Gifts for Christ: A Sacred Opera of Nine Lessons and Carols,” an upcoming musical production set to take place on November 30 at the Association International School.
Speaking at the launch held on Friday October 31 at the church’s hall, Reverend Dr. Akua Ofori Boateng, Director of Programmes for the Anglican Diocese of Accra, shared the inspiration and creative process behind the project.
She explained that the idea began with collaborations among talented musicians and playwrights across Africa, including Cameroonian tenor Bertrand, the music group Grace Choral, and playwright Cobonanza.
According to Rev. Dr. Boateng, the production seeks to present God and the story of salvation in a refreshing, artistic way that reaches beyond church walls.
“Christ said, ‘Go.’ He didn’t say stay in the church. We are going into the artistic space to celebrate God through music and performance,” she said.
She described the opera as a dramatised version of the traditional Nine Lessons and Carols, visually telling the story of humanity’s salvation—from Adam’s fall in Genesis to the birth of Christ as described in John 1:1.
Explaining why the story was set in an operatic form, Rev. Dr. Boateng said the production fuses Western grand opera with African cultural elements.
“Opera is expressive and grand. We wanted to take what is traditionally Western and infuse who we are. These are Ghanaian voices and African instruments celebrating God,” she added.
Music Director and composer Kweku Boakye Frimpong highlighted the musical diversity audiences can expect.
“We made sure everyone will feel included. From Afropop to classical, gospel to traditional rhythms—there’s something for every listener,” he said.
He added that the score incorporates instruments such as the seperewa, kora, and traditional drums to blend African sounds with contemporary and classical influences.
Frimpong noted that though the process was intensive due to time constraints, the result promises a rich and inclusive musical experience.
The “Gifts for Christ” opera will bring together seasoned vocalists and instrumentalists, inviting audiences from all walks of life—including the diplomatic community—to experience a new dimension of worship through art and music.
Explore all the juicy entertainment news you desire with GhanaWeekend on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the GhanaWeekend channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaJ31iEDTkK8wIHNj31A
