“MONICA: OSRAMAWUOMU” (The Moon in the Darkness) Starring: Monica Yaa Yaa (Yaa Yaa / Yoo Yoo) – the Harmattan Child destined for greatness; ObaapanyinMary Frimpong – the steady, loving mother; Agya Stephen Opuni – the proud, hardworking entrepreneur; Okyeame – the witty storyteller; Chorus &Dancers, including her siblings, cousins, children, grandchildren, friends, and church family – the voice of tradition, humor, and prophecy. THE FAMILY BEHIND THE HEROINE Before the drums announce her miracle dawn, the Okyeame lifts his carved staff, and the chorus hums gently, preparing the audience for the world that shaped Monica Yaa Yaa. Her upbringing was intertwined with the rhythms of Asante life—layered, vibrant, and full of movement. She grew up in a blended family guided by her father, mother, and stepmothers. Agya Opuni, striking and industrious, worked with CFAO, later the City Council, served the Manhyia Palace part-time, and ran a lively liquor store and bar at Bompata—where music, laughter, and anansesɛmfilled evenings. As the elders say, “ɔbarima yɛ adwuma a, ne fie te”—when a man works hard, his household flourishes. The family lived in Fanti NewTown until he built a home in Amakom. Obaapanyin Mary and her children remained in Fanti New Town, where she raised themwith warmth, resilience, and quiet ambition. The children moved between both homes, building bonds across different kitchens, different mothers, and different sets of siblings. This layered, colorful tapestry welcomed the Harmattan Child—ɔba a ne brɛoo ne mframa ka ho—born with the dust of December and the promise it carries. HARMATTANMORNING— BIRTH& PROPHECY On a cool, dusty Thursday morning in December in Fanti NewTown, drums hum softly as kente-clad dancers sway. Obaapanyin Mary sits on a low stool wrapped in bright cloth while Agya Opuni stands proudly by. The Chorus chants, “Whose beautiful baby girl is this? Born this lovely Harmattanmorning?” The Okyeame twirls his staff and declares, “Born to two proud families, touched by the Harmattan wind, this child will be great, beautiful, and resilient.” Drums and dancers erupt in celebration. Together, they proclaim: “Her name isMonica Yaa Frimpomaa —our Harmattan Child.” ANECDOTE The Birthday Journal 5
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