Nii-Tete Yartey is a highly accomplished and versatile artist with extensive experience in dance, choreography, teaching, and artistic direction. He holds a Master of Fine Arts and a Bachelor of Fine Art from the University of Ghana, as well as a Diploma in Dance Studies from the same institution. Nii-Tete’s passion for dance and the arts has led him to excel in various roles and collaborate with artists and organizations both locally and internationally.
As the Director of Noyam African Dance Institute since 2015, and the Creative Director of NTY-Studios, Nii-Tete has honed his leadership skills while nurturing a vibrant creative community. Notably, from 2013 to 2018, he served as the Artistic Director of the National Dance Company of Ghana, Ghana Dance Ensemble, where he showcased his artistic vision and expertise in crafting captivating performances.
Nii-Tete’s choreographic talent has garnered recognition both locally and internationally. He has choreographed for prestigious events such as the Annual Osageyfo Awards, the 10th-anniversary celebration of Mediterranean Shipping Company, and Ghana’s 60th Independence Day Celebrations. Additionally, his collaborations with international artists, in productions like “Niyati”, “Agoro” and “ Chain Stories,” exemplify his ability to bridge cultural boundaries through dance.
While establishing himself as a prominent figure in the dance world, Nii-Tete remains deeply committed to education. Since 2019, he has been imparting his knowledge and expertise as a lecturer and dance workshop facilitator at the Design and Technology Institute. Moreover, his teaching experience extends to universities such as the University of California, Irvine, where he served as a workshop coordinator, Ohio University as a visiting artist and the University of Dubuque as a guest lecturer. As a Graduate Assistant at the University of Ghana, he has also played a crucial role in shaping the next generation of dancers.
Alongside his remarkable achievements, Nii-Tete Yartey is currently pursuing a Ph.D., delving into the fascinating field of migration culture and dance. Through his research, he aims to explore how migration influences cultural expressions through movement and its profound impact on the artistic landscape. By shedding light on this important topic, Nii-Tete aspires to contribute to the understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures and their embodiment in dance forms.
Nii-Tete’s contributions to the dance community extend beyond choreography and education. He has made notable appearances in television commercials and films, showcasing his versatility as a performer. Notably, his judging role on the popular talent show “Talented Kids” highlights his ability to recognize and nurture young artistic talents.
Nii-Tete Yartey’s remarkable career trajectory, combined with his dedication to education, international collaborations, and ongoing Ph.D. research on migration culture and dance, solidifies his position as a respected and influential figure in the realm of dance and choreography. His unwavering passion for the arts, commitment to cultural exchange, and exploration of migration’s impact on dance continue to shape and enrich the artistic landscape in Ghana and beyond.