How Anansi Became the God of Stories

by Prentiss Matthews III

Based on a traditional Ashanti fable from Ghana, this vibrant, theatrical retelling brings the legendary trickster spider to life in a celebration of wit, wisdom, and storytelling itself. When the Sky God hoards all the world’s stories, clever Anansi must complete a series of impossible tasks to win them back. Bursting with rhythm, humor, and heart, this play invites audiences to witness how one small spider changed the world with nothing but courage, cunning, and a love for tales.

$12.00

Quick Details

  • Type: Play
  • Length: 45-60 minutes | Can be cut for competition
  • Availability: Available for productions worldwide
  • Cast Size: 13 roles plus optional ensemble | can be doubled for a cast of 8

Full Details

Roles:

  • Narrator
  • Anansi
  • Aso
  • Nyame
  • Mmboro the Hornet
  • Arabesque the Mmoatia Fairy
  • Osebo the Leopard
  • Onini the Python
  • Boring Humans 1 & 2
  • Bush 1 & 2
  • Anan the Sky Cloud Servant

The following resources are included in each performance license:
  • Permission to photocopy the PDF script for your production so there is no additional cost for these assets.

The following resources may be added to you license for an additional fee:
  • Logo/Media package

Prentiss Matthews III

Prentiss Matthews III is an award-winning playwright and multi-hyphenate theatre artist from Atlanta, Georgia, with a BFA in Theatre from Valdosta State University. As an actor, playwright, director, and teaching artist, his work centers storytelling as a tool for healing, social change, and joy.

His play The Golden Loc, inspired by African mythology, was named Best Play of 2024 in the BroadwayWorld Michigan Sector and was a Finalist for both the 2024 Purple Crayon Players New Works Festival and the 2024 Obsidian Theatre Festival. His work has been developed and presented by organizations such as Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre, Fonseca Theatre, The Black Theatre Network, The Union for Contemporary Art, and more.

Prentiss was also selected as a Finalist for the 2024–2025 BIPOC TYA Superhero Project, where he was commissioned to write a new piece centering a superhero of color for young audiences.

His storytelling amplifies Black narratives, mythology, and intergenerational healing, creating theatre that fosters connection, joy, and transformation. When not writing, he enjoys Zumba, exploring art museums, and hunting for the best boba tea.

Originally commissioned and presented by Mt. Vernon High School in 2024