Gbontwi Anyetei, writer of “An African Walks into a Psychiatrist’s Office”
About the playwright:
I was born in west Africa and raised in east London and returned to Ghana this year after six years in local government. My first novel ‘What Do You Call It?’ was published in 2010 and my second ‘Mensah’ will follow in 2014. I have written for TV in the shape of my own comedy Pilot ‘Afristocracy’, Sparrow productions’ Adam’s Apples and GTV’s upcoming ‘Y’ello Cafe’. I also have in development a graphic novel titled ‘The African Line’ in collaboration with various artists and cartoonists.
How did you start writing?
I wrote my first play aged 14 based on the life of Helen Keller, the blind pioneer and philanthropist. I realised writing was my chosen path a couple of years after I left university.
Who are your major influences?
Marcus Garvey, Ayi Kwei Armah, Ngugi Wa Thiongo’o, Chester Himes, John H.Clarke and Wole Soyinka.
What inspires you?
Educating and inspiring my audience, whilst entertaining them foremost.
What do you like about the piece you submitted?
‘An African Walks into a Psychiatrist’s Office’ is a fun and simple exploration of the African experience.
How do you feel about having your work produced?
My life vocation is writing. I came to Ghana to write. Working with the Accra Theatre Workshop presents a really fun way to become part of Africa’s creative landscape.
Gbontwi’s book “What do you call it?” is available on Amazon: http://www.amazon.co.uk/What-Do-You-Call-Tribalism/dp/1452061912/ref=pd_rhf_p_t_1
Connect with Gbontwi on Twitter using the handle @gbontwianyetei or follow him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/What-Do-You-Call-It/153966427971241?ref=br_tf
Also check out his blog: http://hackdonga.blogspot.com/
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