Head of the Department of Dance Studies at the School of Performing Arts at the University of Ghana, Legon, Bright Terry Ofosu, has opened up about the challenges that come with growing public recognition.
The senior lecturer said fame has made it increasingly difficult for him to maintain a private life.
Speaking in an interview on Hitz FM on Thursday, May 28, Dr Ofosu reflected on his journey and his efforts to change societal perceptions about dance as a profession and academic discipline.
According to him, his primary focus has always been the impact he could make through his work rather than the attention that comes with it.
While he appreciates the recognition he receives from students and members of the public, Dr Ofosu admitted that the growing attention is beginning to affect his personal space.
“I’ve always tried to remain very down-to-earth. But where it’s getting to now, I think it’s getting to me because it’s becoming extra difficult to be private,” he stated.
He recounted how simple activities such as shopping have become difficult, with people frequently approaching him for photographs.
“I go into a shop and it’s, ‘Oh, can I take a picture?’ Well, you want to take a picture,” he said.
The dance scholar also disclosed that he now better understands why some public figures are unable to respond to every call or message they receive.
He disclosed that his phone number somehow found its way onto social media, resulting in an overwhelming number of calls and messages from strangers.
“I don’t know how my phone number got on Facebook. Some people are now abusing that, and that’s not cool,” he said.
Dr Ofosu noted that some callers contact him for reasons that leave him confused, including requests to join groups he does not even operate.
“Some people will call and say, ‘Oh, I want to join your group.’ I say, ‘I don’t have a group.’”
Despite the challenges, Dr Ofosu remains committed to his mission of promoting dance education and changing perceptions about the art form in Ghana.
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