Martha Kemper, the associate director of theater on campus, is excited for the upcoming production of “The Dilemma of a Ghost” by Ama Ata Aidoo, an alternative voice in literature. Kemper is the director of the play, which is filled with a student cast. The technical crew is made up of students as well.
“The Dilemma of a Ghost” debuted and takes place in the 1960s. Ato Yawson, who was raised in Ghana, moves to America to further his education. In America, he falls in love with and marries an African American female by the name of Eulalie. Ato then brings his bride back to Ghana to meet his family. The family is not thrilled to meet Eulalie.
Ato is well respected for having gotten his education. However, Ato was expected to come home and marry a Ghanaian woman from his village. This immediately causes a problem between the family and Eulalie. Eulalie, being born and raised in America, does not understand African culture. The culture clash is inevitable.
However, there is another edge that cuts into this culture clash. The family is not thrilled that Eulalie is African American, and at one point even refers to her as a “slave” in reference to her ancestry.
The play touches on a topic not commonly thought of, the difference between two types of African Americans. It is the difference between an American who is or has parents or grandparents from Africa compared to an American who is the descendent of African slaves brought to America.
The first African American has been raised or at least exposed to a specific African culture. The latter has not been exposed to and does not know of his or her African roots, having come from ancestors who were forced to abandon their culture.
This clash in cultures causes a rift between Eulalie and the family, and a puts strain on Eulalie and Ato’s relationship. Ato tries to mediate between the two cultures, but finds it difficult. The lack of understanding is one of the central driving forces of this play.
Kemper commented on the process of bringing the play to life onstage. There are close to 12 cast members. Visually, the set is simply designed. Kemper also describes the costumes as having a simpler, uniform look.
As for sound, there will be drumming (live and recorded) during parts of the play. The drumming adds atmosphere, and also happens to be written into the play.
There is added authenticity in the play as Kemper encouraged students involved in the play who were born in Africa or have family from Africa to guide the cultural aspects of the play. For example, Kemper would ask one of the students the proper way to greet an aunt or uncle.
The upcoming production is preparing to start advertising after Spring Break. Penn State Abington will have the chance to view the play April 21 to 23, 2015.
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