NanaaTsito

Theater practitioner, Actor/Performer, Director/Producer, Poet/Storyteller and an entrepreneur

About Me

Rita Ekua Richardson, also known by her artistic pseudonym Nanaa Tsito , is an interdisciplinary artist and creative force whose work spans theatre, dance, poetry, film, and animation. Her dynamic practice blends traditional storytelling with contemporary performance forms, creating immersive experiences that invite audiences to reflect, connect, and transform. Rita’s artistic vision is deeply rooted in the belief that the arts are not only a vehicle for cultural expression but a powerful tool for social change. As a passionate advocate for the transformative power of the arts, she uses her craft to address critical social and environmental issues, amplify underrepresented voices, and reimagine the world through a more inclusive, human-centered lens. Her interdisciplinary approach challenges conventional boundaries and brings together diverse mediums and communities. Whether on stage, in classrooms, or through film and digital platforms, Rita weaves together storytelling, performance, and activism to inspire empathy, dialogue, and action. A founding member and Creative Director of ZAAFI BLACK ARTS and HOME and ZAAFI ARTS EDU-TAINMENT, Rita has led numerous creative projects that engage with heritage, identity, justice, and sustainability. Her work continues to impact communities across Ghana and internationally, earning her recognition as a bold and committed voice in contemporary African arts and beyond.

Poems

Asafo

Asafo

May 08, 2023
A dream away

A dream away

November 19, 2018
Lost Tales

Lost Tales

May 17, 2017
Two in One

Two in One

November 10, 2016
She

She

November 07, 2015
Inner Tips

Inner Tips

December 20, 2014
Aduwodzi

Aduwodzi

October 23, 2023
Anadwo

Anadwo

August 17, 2018

Portfolio

A Literary Performance

A Literary Performance

Literary Performance – Early “AGOO” Text Reading performance of the evolving “AGOO” text present...
Multilingual Griot Performance -” Earth Together”

Multilingual Griot Performance -” Earth Together”

A multilingual performance blending English, French, Ewe (Meivado), and Fante (Nkabom) with drum ...
Griot Storyteller / Teaching Artist

Griot Storyteller / Teaching Artist

Griot Storyteller / Teaching Artist, ArTEZ CELA Residency - Netherlands 2024
Performer/ Choreographer/ Director

Performer/ Choreographer/ Director

Performer/ Choreographer/ Director “TSITO” Global Water Dances - Ghana -2023.
Storyteller/ Theatre Artist

Storyteller/ Theatre Artist

Storyteller/ Theatre Artist.- BKJ Art& Cultural Exchange program -Germany -2023
Griot /Writer /Performer

Griot /Writer /Performer

Griot /Writer /Performer - WINTERTUIN - Curacao 2023.
Creator / Presenter / Director

Creator / Presenter / Director

Creator / Presenter / Director - Tailless Tales Art festival -Ghana 2019-2022
Practitioner Focused on Growth, Development and Social Impact

Practitioner Focused on Growth, Development and Social Impact

As an artist, my core philosophy is rooted in growth; both personal and collective.  I believe in...

Testimonials

It has been an absolute pleasure hosting Rita as a resident performance artist. She has exceeded all expectations, from her captivating storytelling and stagecraft at the event to the engaging workshops she successfully facilitated. Rita makes everything seem effortless. Her articulate delivery and strong stage presence are complemented by her humility, w...

Joeri Sonofra

Joeri Sonofra

Director, Wintertuin Curacao

Curacao

Participating in Rita's storytelling workshop was a life-changing experience. I not only learned new techniques to enhance my storytelling skills as a writer, but also gained a deeper understanding of how narrative can drive social change. Rita’s ability to engage with our group and create a space for us to share our own stories was inspiring. I left the ...

Amelie

Amelie

Second-Year Student Writer, ARTEZ University of the Arts

Netherlands

Even after many years, I continue to refer to Rita as one of, if not the best, acting students I’ve had the pleasure of teaching. During her time as a student, she often left me and others wondering if she was already a professional in disguise. Her ability to quickly grasp directions and deliver performances with exceptional skill has always been remarka...

Dr. Riverson

Dr. Riverson

Head of Department / Lecturer - University of Education

Winneba, Ghana

Simply put, having Rita as a cast member is a gift. Not only does she possess a strong stage presence, but she is also humble, accommodating, and fully committed to every role she plays, unaware of just how brilliant she is. She is always several steps ahead, yet more than willing to assist others. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with her.

Prof. Femi Osofisan

Prof. Femi Osofisan

Playwright, Poet

Nigeria

As an actor, working with Director Rita is always a rewarding experience. She is a perfectionist who helps bring out the best in her cast, all while making us feel safe and inspired. She guides with tact, allowing room for creativity and personal expression. Every time I work with her, I leave with valuable insights and a renewed sense of purpose.

Shine Gaveh

Shine Gaveh

Freelance Actor

Accra, Ghana

Rita is a gifted artist who brings unmatched passion and dedication to every project. Their work, especially in community outreach, demonstrates a deep commitment to using the arts as a tool for social transformation. I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with ZAAFI ARTS on several theater and storytelling initiatives, and I’ve witnessed firsthand the la...

Stephany Ursula Yamoah

Stephany Ursula Yamoah

Artistic Director/Choreographer - National Theater of Ghana

Accra, Ghana

Rita and I have collaborated on several film and animation projects, despite coming from different backgrounds and nationalities. She is a truly dedicated filmmaker, excelling in everything from producing to directing. Her storytelling is exceptional, and she has an incredible ability to focus on every detail while overseeing all aspects of a project, eve...

Jibril Mailafia

Jibril Mailafia

Filmmaker / CEO, Hamailisa

Jos, Nigeria

Participating in ZAAFI ARTS’ workshops, starting back at my high school, Akropong SHS, was transformative. Our school was fortunate to be part of their outreach program, which raised awareness on environmental and climate change issues. The vocational skills training in bakery and palm branch weaving, among other things, has helped me support myself as I ...

Roland

Roland

Akropong High School Student turned Activist

Akropong, Ghana