Mynna Otoo Shines in Fifi Coleman’s Adaptation of ‘I Told You So’.

Fifi Coleman Productions appears to have struck gold yet again with this stage adaptation of Bob Cole’s ‘I Told You So‘, a timeless cinematic classic. This feat not only highlights the steady resurgence of Ghanaian theatre in recent years but also underscores the high quality of talent within these spaces that has yet to be fully recognised in mainstream arts conversations.

Last night, May 1st 2026, I finally caught a performance of I Told You So at the National Theatre. Following its successful opening in March and subsequent roadshows in Kumasi and Takoradi, the production remains a must-watch.

For many Ghanaians, this is an all-too-familiar story about the ethos that ‘a good name is better than riches.‘ The play is set in 1970s Ghana, within a small community where Kobina Jones a strange ‘rich man‘ arrives in search of a wife. After being introduced to the beautiful young Rosina by her uncle, he decides to marry her immediately. However, her father is the sole voice of opposition to the union. His reason? He simply does not want his daughter to marry a rich man. Everyone else, particularly Rosina’s mother and her uncle, the town’s ‘learned’ postmaster is blinded by the perceived benefits of the union forgetting that they barely know the man. 

As simple as this premise appears, at its core, I Told You So serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that all that glitters is not gold. Fifi Coleman’s adaptation stays true to this central theme, even with its modern embellishments. The approach is bold, not only in reviving a classic but in daring to offer patrons a truly immersive, nostalgic experience.

There is also a conscious effort to situate the play within a contemporary Ghanaian context. References to current trends and social issues are woven in with ease, and they never overwhelm the narrative. Instead, they gently remind the audience that this story, though rooted in the past, is far from distant. It remains a reality for many today. These modern touches also provide several of the production’s comedic high points. Specifically, Clemento Suarez displayed impeccable timing and delivery in his portrayal of ‘Messenger.‘

But he is not the only talent who stands out in this production. Mynna Otoo, in the role of Araba Stamp (Rosina’s mother), also delivers an exceptional performance. Her portrayal is flawless and a genuine ode to the original performance of the character from the movie. Proving that she is one of many seasoned talents awaiting their moment under the bright lights. She plays Araba Stamp with all the animation and hilarity one would expect for the stage, and her delivery of the Fante dialogue is equally impressive.

Veteran actor Fred Amugi also stars in this production as Odikro, the traditional ruler of the land. As one would expect, he brings a level of experience and composure to the stage that elevates the character. I could say the same for Ken Fiati, who played the alternate actor for the same role in an earlier staging of the play. The production features a large ensemble of actors both known and unknown and its admiral the cohersion with which they all work together to make this play as entertaining as it is.

Beyond the performances, the staging embraces a fluidity of space, making the most of the National Theatre’s stage. The speed and coordination of the set changes are admirable as they eliminated the need for intermissions between scenes, allowing the play to maintain a tight, uninterrupted pace. Seamless transitions are often difficult to execute, yet here, the production kept the momentum high, either through the music or the comedic high points, when the audience is roaring with laughter.

What lingers after the curtain falls is truly satisfying. You are not only entertained; you leave with a sense of resonance. It may be humour-laden, but I Told You So endures because it speaks to something deeply human, the tension between knowing and learning, and the importance of looking at people beyond what we see on the surface.

Withmout a doubt, this production is more than just a nostalgic trip. It is a definitive showcase of the high-calibre talent currently vibrating within Ghanaian theatre. By bringing such seasoned and ‘undiscovered‘ performers to the forefront, Fifi Coleman Productions has contributed to the conversation that the talents on our stages are ready for the global spotlight. 

I will score this play 4 out of 5 stars. 

If you have yet to see this production, you are truly missing out. Fifi Coleman Productions intends to tour with this play, so be on the lookout for a performance near you.