'Oroonoko', Jerry Benzwick, (left) and 'Aboan', Dwayne Brown. THE SCHOOL of Drama's production Oroonoko - a story based on the life and times of a Ghanaian prince called Oroonoko, will have its final performance at Dennis Scott Studio Theatre Sunday, April 8. This week's performances are scheduled for tomorrow to Sunday.
The production boasts a range of colourful characters who have elicited strong reaction from the capacity audiences the show has attracted since its opening night last Friday. Among the most touching relationships that are explored in the play is that between 'Prince Oroonoko' played by Jerry Benzwick, and his friend "Aboan", Dwayne Brown.
The production is a study in courage, love, friendship and treachery that not only traces Oroonoko's royal roots, but his separation from his wife 'Imoinda' as a result of trickery, his descent into slavery, and the escape he eventually finds.
Spectacular costumes and an impressive set assist the performers in putting the story across in this production that brings together students and some lecturers from the schools of Drama, Dance, Music and Art at the Edna Manley College, as well as external professionals whose members are talented exponents in their respective fields.
The play is written by the outstanding Nigerian playwright Biyi Bandele and is based on the original Oroonoko that was penned some 300 years ago by Aphra Behn.
