Dr. Esi Sutherland-Addy is a pioneering figure in the field of African theatre and cultural activism. Born in Ghana in 1952, she has dedicated her life to promoting and preserving African cultural heritage, particularly through theatre and education.
Dr. Sutherland-Addy’s journey began at the University of Ghana, where she earned a degree in Theatre Arts. She later went on to pursue a Ph.D. in Drama at the University of Manchester, UK. Her academic pursuits were driven by a desire to understand the role of theatre in African society and to use it as a tool for social change.
After completing her studies, Dr. Sutherland-Addy returned to Ghana and founded the Drama Studio, which later became the Centre for Culture, Arts and African Studies at the University of Ghana. Her work focused on using theatre as a means of educating and empowering communities, and promoting African cultural heritage.
In addition to her work in theatre and education, Dr. Sutherland-Addy has been a leading voice in cultural activism in Africa. She has served on numerous national and international cultural committees and has been a strong advocate for the preservation and promotion of African culture.
Dr. Sutherland-Addy has received numerous awards for her work, including the Prince Claus Award for Culture and Development in 2001 and the African Women of Excellence Award in 2009. She continues to inspire generations of African theatre practitioners and cultural activists, and her legacy is a testament to the power of theatre and culture in promoting social change and preserving African heritage.