Author: Anjellah Owino

Mwikali Mary, the performer of the one-person monologue piece ‘1982 ni mimi’ [Courtesy] The monologue piece 1982 ni Mimi is set during the historical 1982 coup attempt. Performed by Mwikali Mary and written and directed by Wakio Mzenge, it will be staged at Cheche Gallery, Kenya Cultural Centre, on March 27 to mark World Theatre Day. Rather than focusing on powerful figures or the state response, the piece turns away from dominant narratives and instead fictionally reimagines the coup through the lives of those who never made it into the history books. The story unfolds over the six hours of the…

Art pieces from solo exhibition ‘The Skin of Memory’ on display at The African Arts Trust. [Courtesy] Multimedia artist Abdul Rop presents The Skin of Memory, a solo exhibition at The African Arts Trust. Opened on March 13 and running until May 22, the show features five finished large-scale woodcut prints alongside two carved plates, allowing viewers to engage both the final image and the physical process behind it. Rop, known for his woodcut prints and paintings, works by carving into wood, inking the surface, then pressing it onto fabric. The scale of the works invites viewers to stand before…

Kenyan writer W.B. Njeru takes on mission to reclaim fantasy storytelling W.B. Njeru is a full-time author and publisher set on a mission to popularise the genre of fantasy fiction in Africa. His Arikana fantasy fiction four-book series: Son of Akanga, The Sorceress of Harem, Day of the Dark Sun, and Guerrilla Queen. The books explore African mythologies and beliefs that were once told in oral storytelling traditions. Growing up, he enjoyed listening to his brother telling amusing, great tales about warriors. Then he started reading books about them, such as Tales of Wamugumo by Peter Ngibuni Kuguru, which his…

Theatre week shines light on Kenya’s evolving stage, creative collaboration Theatre practitioners across the country are celebrating World Theatre Week from March 20, culminating in World Theatre Day on March 27. With its ongoing theme of theatre and a culture of peace, thespians are reflecting on the importance of the stage as a space for storytelling and collaboration.   Theatre producer and actor Martina Ayoro, who is based in Mombasa, is marking the occasion by producing an initiative titled Incubation, a project focused on restaging theatre works that had previously been shelved. The initiative is her second project as a…

World Poetry Day: Inside the voices shaping new era of Kenyan poetry World Poetry Day, held every year on March 21, celebrates poetic expression and was first recognised by UNESCO in 2000. We spotlight five poets who are pushing the boundaries of the craft in diverse ways. Maxie Daniel “… I want to tell her I am sorry; I want to hold her close, but how when she wronged a man the moment she became a woman.” – A Woman, by Maxie Daniel. On World Poetry Day, Maxie Daniel hosted the second annual World Poetry Day Gala and Awards at…

Artist Njogu Kuria blends UB40 inspiration with African myth in fresh exhibition Artist Njogu Kuria’s latest solo exhibition, titled Watchdogs of the Night, opened at the Munyu Space in Westlands on March 7 and runs until the 28th. The show revolves around protective forces as inspired by UB40’s song Watchdogs. Music has always influenced Kuria’s work since he started creating with vinyl records about 10 years ago. He is guided by the rhythm, the lyrics or a feeling of the song. He recalls planning for the show last year while listening to Watchdogs, and the idea about searching for safety…

Written and directed by Trevor Aseri, it features four young men in their early twenties, played by Aseri, Fenwick Gabriel, John Solomon, and Adrienne Ogutu. [Courtesy] Trevor Aseri’s younger brother followed his passion to work at a mechanic’s workshop after high school since he did not meet academic requirements to join university. As a fourth-year university student of finance, Aseri looks into the contrasting paths between him and his brother. “Surprisingly, he has supported my entire campus life. He is the second breadwinner in the family after our mother. I am nearly graduating, and I don’t know if I will…

Family-owned school descends into chaos in Kikuyu comedy ‘He Wega’ In the Kikuyu comedy play He Wega, Martin Munywa (played by Humphrey Maina) is a schoolteacher whose life spirals into alcoholism following the death of his father, the school director. The production explores themes of poor leadership, fund embezzlement, corruption, love triangles and power struggles within family-owned institutions. Produced by Wangui wa Ngina under Andu a Mumbi Entertainment, the play will be staged at Jalaram Auditorium in Westlands on March 20. It is strictly for audiences aged 21 and above. The story centres on a family-owned school left in the…

Why Pope Leo XIV won’t visit Kenya during his Africa tour Pope Leo XIV will travel to Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea from April 13 to 23, marking his first official visit to Africa since his pontification in May last year, according to Vatican reports. The Holy See Press Office said the Apostolic Journey will span 11 days and 11 cities, and include six greetings, 10 addresses, and eight homilies. Algeria The visit will begin in Algiers from April 13 to 15, where the Pope will visit the Maqam Echahid Martyrs’ Monument to commemorate the Algerian War of Independence.…

Theatre series ‘What we carry’ maps grief, love and survival through 10 plays The Keeper of Quiet Things is set 100 years into the future and explores themes of government control, personal freedom, and human memory. The play will be staged at the Ukumbi Mdogo, Kenya Cultural Centre, on March 21. This science fiction monologue performance, scripted by Brian Abudu, Lorna Lemi, and Martin Kigondu, is the second instalment in the ten-part theatre series titled What We Carry, an 11-month journey across Nairobi theatre stages that explores human contradictions. Set in 2126, The Keeper of Quiet Things tells the story…

Polyann Njeri returns to stage with ‘Of Cords and Discord’, opens up on theatre journey Theatre actor Polyann Njeri plays Jane in the upcoming two-hander drama thriller, Of Cords and Discord, set for April 25, following its run last year that starred Celestine Gachuhi and Mwikali Mary under the direction of Martin Kigondu. The play explores familial relationships through two sisters, Jane and Joan, unpacking themes of jealousy, betrayal, rivalry, favouritism and grief. Though now a familiar name in theatre circles, Njeri did not grow up dreaming of the stage. Performing arts came later, in 2018, when she was searching…

Ardhi Gallery celebrates women with digital exhibition featuring 150 artworks The Ardhi Gallery has opened its digital exhibition, Her Wellness, Her World, featuring over 150 artworks celebrating women. The exhibition, which launched on International Women’s Day on March 8, brings together 19 female artists and the Kwa Watu Collective. Hosted on the Ardhi Gallery Online Marketplace, the ongoing showcase highlights women contributing to the art industry and explores themes of identity, wellbeing, resilience, and personal expression. The exhibition is curated by Ardhi Gallery founder Christine Oguna and David Kihumba. Gemini Vaghela is exhibiting 21 artworks. If Dreams is a charcoal…

Bleeding Stones: Play delves into the hidden fears, inner battles of men during chaos A two-hander drama titled Bleeding Stones explores men’s innermost struggles. The play, by Chisaina Arts Production, hits the stage on April 19 at Nimpa Theatre in Nairobi. It follows Elias (Dennis Njoroge) and his optimistic alter ego, Kivuli (Victor Muyekwe). Set in a fictional post-election period of violence, Elias faces chaos and must protect his family. Scared, he questions his own masculinity. Kivuli appears to remind him of moments when he displayed strength. The relationship between Elias and Kivuli is a dialogue between doubt and self-belief.…

Actors on stage (photo Anjellah Owino) A staging of Mgonjwa Mwitu focuses on the problem of fake doctors exploiting vulnerable patients and the scandals that presently go on in the health sector. The play is brought on stage by the Nairobi Performing Arts Studio from March 26 to 29 at the Kenya National Theatre. The production is an adaptation of the 17th-century French playwright Molière’s La Malade Imaginaire, written in 1673. The story, however, has been adapted for a contemporary Kenyan audience, scripted by Gadwill Odhiambo. “It has been completely updated and is now set in 2026 Nairobi”, Director Stuart Nash explains. Odhiambo…

Photo Courtesy For over 15 years, Gemini Vaghela has worked across multimedia forms, exploring identity, growth and preservation through her art. Moving between traditional painting and digital processes, her work reflects a practice through experimentation and personal reflection. With an academic background in interactive multimedia technologies and photography, she draws inspiration from how refined the digital world is. And she also finds ways to merge digital and traditional art, for instance, transforming paintings into wearable pieces. “I first create hand-painted artworks, then get them digitally printed onto fabrics which can be worn as scarves or sarongs, or stitched into other…

Last Seen, will go on stage on May 2 and 3 at the Kenya National Theatre (KNT) main auditorium Playwright and creative director Martin Abuya tells stories that reflect the realities of everyday life. Through his company, Igiza Arts Production, he stages productions that blend humour, drama and societal realities. His work, Last Seen, will go on stage on May 2 and 3 at the Kenya National Theatre (KNT) main auditorium. The play portrays the growing disconnection in modern friendships. “We live in a time where we are constantly online and in group chats, yet many people feel more isolated than ever,” Abuya says. This…

Poetry steals spotlight as Kenya Theatre Awards honours on-stage excellence For the first time since the inception of the Kenya Theatre Awards (KTA) in 2021, a poetry show was among the biggest winners of the night. Midnight Poetry, which was staged by Kevin Maina of Maina Mind Productions, received four awards out of nine nominations. That is the Best Spoken Word Production, Best Stage Managed Production (Rita Gitau), Best Musical Score, Arrangement or Adaptation (Modest Chabari), and Best Lighting Design (Charles Stephen). The fifth edition of the KTA announced its winners at the Kenya National Theatre this past Thursday night,…

Artist James Kamande turns Nairobi’s skyline into rusted memory at Westlands exhibition Contemporary visual artist James Kamande’s work examines Nairobi’s urban life and architecture through mixed media paintings and metal sculptures that reflect the changing cityscape. His works are on display at the Art of Connection group exhibition at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Westlands. Curated by Myrna Art Direction and Sena Art Gallery, the exhibition opened on February 12 and runs until May. He considers his work a documentary, welding metal sculptures into buildings that showcase some of the places in the city. What first drew Kamande to metal…

The Kenya Theatre Awards (KTA) ceremony took place at the Kenya National Theatre this past Thursday night. Winners of 29 categories were awarded in the event that was filled with theatre glitz and spectacle. The category number is a drop from last year’s 36, which the five-bench jury, led by chair and juror Ian Mbugua said was to elevate the quality of productions. Last year, the jury watched 222 theatre shows across 78 venues in the country.   Here is the list of the winners for the fifth edition of the KTA 2026.   Best Playwright – Original Script Yafesi Musoke – Bad Girls…

Poet turns pain into art in second book ‘In the Absence of Presence’ J.O. Bernard’s In the Absence of Presence, a collection of poems, letters, and phrases, is a tender reflection on grief and longing. The book is mostly influenced by the writers he has read and studied. His literary world is also a complete contrast to his early environment in Eastlands, Nairobi, a place he described as hostile for a young boy. So he sought literature as his solace, aware that the literary world that we are exposed to can be different from our environments. A foremost influence on…

Love, lies, TikTok take centre stage in Luo comedy ‘Nyuka Onge Kwero’ Nyuka Onge Kwero (Pok Imetho?), a Luo comedy play by Abila Production, addresses love triangles. Staged at the Nairobi Cinema on Valentine’s Day, the play begins with Nyakablack (played by Linet Omuya), a wife who is obsessed with TikTok. Her fixation strains her relationship with her husband, Kasuku (played by Alvins Kasuku), on Valentine’s Day when they have no plans. Matters spiral out of control when the husband’s ex suggests a rendezvous at a Mombasa hotel, and a call from the hotel manager leads the wife to think…

Lango Kabhula: Congolese artist uses paintings, installation to trace materials’ journey Congolese artist Lango Kabhula opened an exhibition titled Matières Voyageuses (translated as Travelling Materials) at Alliance Française Nairobi on February 9. The exhibition runs until February 28. Curated by Sarah Luddy in collaboration with Alliance Française Nairobi, it features 16 large-scale paintings and a series of 13 smaller works, accompanied by an immersive installation. “It refers to the entire history of materials, that is, their extraction, circulation, transformation, and use,” says Kabhula. He explains that the notion of travel connects resource exploitation with migration, identity, and artistic creation, particularly…

Love takes centre stage across Kenya’s theatres this Valentine’s [Anjellah Owino, Standard] This Valentine’s season, love is taking centre stage. Production companies across Nairobi, Kisumu, and Mombasa are showcasing original plays that explore different facets of love. The opening scene of The Lady in Red shows Amelia (Carina Rumburger) and Andrew (Sam Psenjen) celebrating their five-year wedding anniversary in their living room. Five years later, they meet in the same room again, this time discussing divorce in the presence of a lawyer. The interracial couple wonders how their marriage reached this breaking point, and it is revealed gradually that they…

Kenya Actors Guild Executive Director Dickens Olwal [Courtesy] Dickens Olwal plans to amplify the voices of actors so they are heard and taken seriously as he steps into the role of Executive Director at the Kenya Actors Guild (KAG). Founded in 2008 by Lupita Nyong’o, Peter King and Elly Yang Omukubi, KAG was established to advocate for actors’ rights, welfare and professional standards. Olwal’s commitment to advocating for actors is shaped by his own journey in the arts. He began as a stage actor in school drama festivals and later taught drama during his high school years under the mentorship…

KTA jury chair Ian Mbugua speaks during the unveiling of nominees for the 2026 Kenya Theatre Awards. [Courtesy] The Kenya Theatre Awards (KTA) 2026 nominees were unveiled at the Kenya National Theatre, marking the fifth edition of the annual ceremony that celebrates excellence in Kenyan theatre. This year, the awards feature 29 nomination categories, down from 36 in 2025, a move organisers say is aimed at sharpening competitiveness and recognising standout work across the industry. The nominees were announced by KTA jury chair Ian Mbugua and Director of the Kenya International Theatre Festival (KITFest) Benson Ngobia. The awards ceremony is…

Caroline Ngorobi brings Mombasa’s theatre to life with original plays, festivals Caroline Ngorobi is a prominent voice in Mombasa’s theatre scene. In February, she is staging 30th Feb: The Date That Never Happened, a comedy love story revolving around Valentine’s Day. The play stars John Mumba, Martina Ayoro, Mary Favour and Paita Bakari. Mumba’s character, Greg, is set up for a date but ends up being the only one preparing for it. The play was first staged last year at the Alliance Française Mombasa and returns to the stage on February 13 at Nyali Cinemax. Produced and directed by Ngorobi,…

Art: Muthoni Mwangi recreates Lamu in miniature collage cities “I build cities in boxes,” Muthoni Mwangi plainly yet poetically describes her newest artistic approach. The visual research artist travelled to Lamu last year, a place that drew her to its rich history and people. She is now recreating the town in collage pieces within boxes. Previously, she painted, sculpted and did woodwork before settling on collage art. She then made collages of women on flat canvases; this is a new direction she is taking with her art. The idea to use boxes came to her unexpectedly, through an ordinary experience…

The ‘Matatu Musical’ cast during their rehearsals. [Courtesy] Wangarĩ Maathai Too Early for Birds returns in April with the staging of its ninth show at the Jain Bhavan Auditorium in Loresho. Fifteen years after her passing, the collective is staging the story of Wangarĩ Maathai. This edition will explore different facets of her life as a mother, professor, Member of Parliament, assistant minister, activist, writer, farmer and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, an honour she received on December 10, 2004. The production celebrates her work in environmental conservation, community development and sustainable development. Too Early for Birds is known for historical…

Art: Ian Gichohi reimagines how photographs can exist on paper Ian Gichohi’s first solo photography exhibition, A Lot Has Happened, explores alternative ways of displaying images. Featuring 19 artworks, the exhibition examines unconventional approaches to how photographs can exist on different forms of paper. In some works, Gichohi assembles several photographs within a single frame. These assemblages are clean-cut, influenced by his brief time studying architecture and his love for the photo book. Other images sit singularly within frames. The exhibition opened on November 27 and runs until February 14 at Paper Café in Westlands, a fitting location given that…

‘Landscapes from Home’ exhibition brings Kenyan stories to London Landscapes from Home, a group exhibition bringing together six Kenyan artists, runs from January 15 to 23 at the Africa Centre in London. The exhibition features work by Coster Ojwang, Sheila Bayley, Viktart Mwangi, Andrew Crae, Doreen Mueni and Swift9 Graffiti to depict what home looks like. Curated by Stephanie Chianda, a curator and medical doctor based in London, in collaboration with Asili Creatives, the show includes a collection of 25 works and is aimed at speaking to Africans in the diaspora who are starting to collect art from their home…

An entrance at the Little Theatre Club in Mombasa County on Friday 5th November 2021. [Kelvin Karani, Standard] One of the main stages of performing arts in the Coast region, the Little Theatre Club, is at risk of closure following a directive from the Kenya Railways Corporation to turn it into a training institute. The history of the club dates back to the 1940s. Soldiers of the British Royal Navy in Mombasa would stage plays in different locations during World War II. In 1947, Captain Richard Moreton met with his group of thespians at a pub, and they started talking…

Social media beats traditional marketing in drawing more audiences to theatres In 2025, some productions played to full auditoriums, others drew moderate audiences, while a few reached only a small number of viewers. Getting more people into theatre spaces and keeping them coming back has become one of the main focuses in the industry. In the past, theatre marketing was informal. Cast members often sold tickets within their immediate social circles of friends and family. Flyers were stuck on trees and walls to reach the public, and performers’ payment depended on ticket sales. While some of these strategies persist today,…

Raising an introvert in today’s world Before going with a child to a new social setting, an introverted one will likely need a conversation to prepare them for what to expect. Once they arrive, they will likely need more time to adapt before they socialise. Children are typically expected to be socially open even without an established rapport. A reserved child preferring solitude is said to lack good social skills; therefore, their introversion is viewed as a flaw, something to be fixed. Adults urge them to open up and greet strangers, with comments like, “Why don’t you speak?” or “You…

2025: Kenyan theatre beams with new voices, return of classics This year saw the re-staging of several classic works by theatre veterans, introducing a new generation of audiences to these timeless pieces. There was Picha (1985) by Mohamed Komeja, Kaggia (2014) and Elements (2013) by John-Sibi Okumu, The Trial of Dedan Kimathi (1976) by Ngugi wa Thiong’o, an adaptation of David Maillu’s After 4.3, and Kifo Kisimani by Kithaka wa Mberia. Seasoned actor Wakio Mzenge has been one of the actors with several productions this year, having acted in Elements, Mgonjwa Mwitu, Ujumbe, and Mtakatifu Bonoko. She says she was…

Rick Ross announces new book ‘Renaissance of a Boss’ set for 2026 Rick Ross will launch his new book, Renaissance of a Boss: Notes from a Creative Reawakening, in May 2026. Next year will mark 20 years in the music industry since the release of his debut single, Hustlin’, in March 2006. The hip-hop mogul and entrepreneur announced the latest work on social media to his millions of followers. “It’s time. For twenty years, we’ve been hustlin’. Now, I’m taking you on a different kind of journey,” he shared. He continued: “I hit the road to find a new spark,…

Kenyan artists shine in Iran-backed social justice art competition Three artists, Collins Murimi, Benson Hika Mwangi, and Patricia Githae, won an art competition and exhibition hosted by the Cultural Council of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Nairobi on December 5. The event, themed on social justice and equality, saw more than 100 submissions, with 50 artworks shortlisted for the final exhibition after a rigorous selection process. The winners received cash prizes of Sh60,000, Sh40,000 and Sh30,000, respectively, judged by veteran visual artist Patrick Mukabi and poet Vincent Nyangor.  First-place winner Collins Murimi submitted his winning artwork…

David Mulwa: Icon who built Kenyan theatre, lived on through his students On December 5, Prof David Mulwa laid down his pen after a life dedicated to theatre, television, education, and film. His career, spanning more than five decades, influenced generations of artists.   Mulwa is fondly remembered by the theatre arts fraternity as an amiable and disciplined man. His widow, Janet Mulwa, recalled that they met for the first time in 2010. Mulwa was acting in Tabasamu at the time, a show that she used to watch.  She appealed to the public to help offset the outstanding hospital bill,…

Books and Wine Club members during the ”Sip and tour” and launch of Soma Nami bookstore in Greenhouse along Ngong Road [File/Standard] This is a perfect time to reach for a festive read. But a stroll along book aisles tells a story of the absence of Christmas-themed fiction by Kenyan authors for adults. So far, we only have Christmas Without Tusker by Meja Mwangi and A Special Christmas: Who Stole Baby Jesus? by Maureen Njuguna.  The perception of a holiday reading list for Lexa Lubanga, host of the annual Kenyan Readathon, is light reads that also allow for time for…

Redemption: Late playwright David Mulwa’s classic play set for highly awaited comeback David Mulwa’s Redemption is set to make a highly anticipated stage comeback in March 2026. Mulwa, a veteran thespian, actor, playwright, author, and lecturer, passed away on December 5 after a long illness. He leaves behind a rich legacy of works exploring corruption, neo-colonialism, power, faith, morality, and ethical responsibility. Redemption was originally commissioned by the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) to commemorate its 50th anniversary. First performed in 1989, the play toured churches across the country. It is celebrated for its bold critique of religious…

Caption Angela Wambui’s first solo exhibition, Threads of Consciousness, opened on November 22 at Peponi Gardens in Westlands and runs until December 15. Curated by Verónica Paradinas of GravitArt Gallery, the exhibition features 16 mixed-media colourful artworks that explore the interplay between the conscious and the unconscious. In this body of work, Wambui combines acrylics, oils, and beadwork to create textured pieces that move between the visible and unseen. Her choice of materials is deliberate in expanding the story. To her, oil stands for clarity and conscious thought. The acrylics and oils represent the tangible and visible world, while the…

The late Bilal Wanjau [Courtesy] Actor Bilal Wanjau took his last curtain call on the night of December 3 after a battle with type 2 diabetes. The beloved performer lived many lives on theatre, film, and television sets over the years, and most notably in Kifo Kisimani, Tahidi High, and Jela 5 Star. His artistic journey began in his school years at St Teresa’s Boys Secondary School and later Eastleigh High School. His professional journey took off in 2007 when he joined Starlight Productions just after completing high school. There, he began as an actor in set book performances and…

Whispers of Hope is an original drama series that revolves around Amina, a bright and determined girl whose life is turned down after the death of her parents. Forced to live with her uncle and his family, she faces neglect and hostility. She realises she may have a mysterious gift linked to her late mother. Set in the scenic beauty of Rongo in Migori County, the 13-episode series by Rongowood Art & Entertainment premiered on November 15 at Nairobi Cinema, an event attended by representatives from the Kenya Film Classification Board and the Rongo MP Paul Abuor. Season One follows Amina…

Caption After watching Free Me, I remember telling a friend, who was seeing it a day later, that they were in for a treat. It felt odd to say that about a play centred on domestic abuse and drawn from a real-life story. Still, it was both moving and unexpectedly humorous. This past weekend, Free Me struck straight at the hearts of its audience. It took us on a rollercoaster of joy, pain, anger, surprise, and disgust, and at times, several emotions all at once. The play is based on the true story of award-winning theatre producer Gathoni Kimuyu and…

George Mbuto on stage [Courtesy] On the evening of November 21, stand-up comedian and actor Generali, real name George Mbuto, took to the Kenya National Theatre (KNT) stage to perform A Time to Twist the Knife. The one-man comedy special opened with historical storytelling about the KNT, the Norfolk Hotel, and the Central Police Station. He wanted to explore the history of these three spaces and honour women who were at the forefront of the liberation struggle. From there, the show flowed into a stand-up set in which he tackled political and social themes through original jokes. Generali stayed true…

An art piece from Ekene Ngine’s This Little Light of Mine exhition [Courtesy Nigerian artist Ekene Ngige’s exhibition titled This Little Light of Mine emanates from his childhood memories of living with a physical disability. The inspiration expanded over the years as he watched recurring abductions and killings of children in Northern Nigeria. “I faced a physical challenge all my life; there were doubts about the success of my future, but I held onto my light real close. I followed my passion for art, and now I am showing my little to the world. Those abducted kids did not have that opportunity,”…

Nuria Bookshop proprietor Abdullahi Bulle at the store [Courtesy] Book lovers can now explore new titles and cherished old books at Nuria Bookshop. Its owner, Abdullahi Bulle, has dedicated part of his space to the Museum of African Books, an initiative to safeguard the continent’s literary and cultural treasures. With the museum presently housed at the bookshop, it is a blend of exhibition and business. The books for the museum collection are framed and displayed, while their copies are also preserved outside the frame. They will be preserving works by African authors or about Africa that are political, medicinal, cultural,…

The ‘Free Me’ cast [Courtesy] As the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence nears, award-winning producer Gathoni Kimuyu is staging a play, Free Me, one that speaks on her real-life experience of gender-based violence (GBV). Kimuyu felt that many GBV events are corporate-centred and don’t focus on victims, so she wanted this play to be their voice. Going on stage on November 28-30 at Shah Jain Bhavan in Loresho, Nairobi, the play revolves around five actors who portray a different version of Kimuyu across her life. From the hopeful 16-year-old who dreams of getting married to the 25-year-old in…

Njoroge Kuria stands alongside his sculptural work The Avatar [Courtesy] Njogu Kuria’s life-sized sculptural work titled The Avatar is a new step in his engagement with recycled materials. The piece, which is currently grabbing attention at the Sarit Centre, Nairobi, is made of metal and rubber.  It has come a long way since Kuria first began experimenting with rubber in 2023. In the previous years, he worked with vinyl records to create portraits before transitioning into three-dimensional forms, finding himself drawn to the black essence of both his vinyl records and sculptural works.  Black rubber, from recycled tyres and inner tubes,…

Sebawali Sio: Kenyan artist explores grief, memory in London Group Show When Kenyan visual artist Sebawali Sio received an invitation to join a London group exhibition exploring grief, she described the feeling as something inside her exhaled. Grief is a subject that has been in her practice for a long time, particularly how materials hold emotion and how water holds memory. The curator of this show, Mercurial Pearl, reached out to her after seeing her recent paintings and sculptures exploring water and memory, and she felt it resonated with the show’s exploration of loss and renewal.  The exhibition titled Your…

Thuita Mwangi brings Nairobi’s history to life through immersive street theatre Last Sunday, art enthusiasts and onlookers followed actor and storyteller Thuita Mwangi through the streets of Nairobi to hear its stories. From the Kenya National Theatre (KNT) to the Dedan Kimathi monument on Kimathi Street, his latest street theatre performance under Story za Thuita production was a history lesson and a public occasion in one. This performance is part of the annual two-week Kenya International Theatre Festival (KITFEST) that ends on November 16. The three-hour walk featured his storytelling performance, supported by stunt work, puppetry, music, and dance from…

The late Raila Odinga presents his autobiography ‘The Flame of Freedom’ to Ngugi Wa Thiong’o during a meeting at his office in 2005 [File/Standard] Kenyan writers continued to command attention in 2025 with a year marked by political memoirs, cultural documentation, and a renewed interest in locally written fiction.   Bennet Owuonda, a salesperson from Nuria Bookstore, says one of the strongest trends this year has been the popularity of memoirs and autobiographies, especially on topics of politics, leadership, and personal endurance. This, he says, is proof that true-to-life stories make just as compelling reads as fiction. Owuonda records that…

ALF Nairobi Chapter Director Alexander Nderitu [Courtesy] Nairobi will host its first edition of the Asian Literary Festival (ALF) in April 2026. The international literary event, slated for debut in Africa, will feature authors from Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan, and Ghana. Novelist and playwright Alexander Nderitu has been announced as the director for the Nairobi chapter, with other chapters running in Abu Dhabi, Brussels, Gampaha, Montreal, Valencia, Odisha, and Dubai. He aims to use the festival as an international platform for African writers and to raise Nairobi’s literary prestige. “This appointment came with gratitude, apprehension, and a bit of surprise. I…

Wangari 2.0: Theatrical tribute to Wangari Maathai’s legacy At Karura University, Zuri Wangari is devastated when Prof Wangari Maathai Memorial Park is sold off to foreign investors who plan to cut down trees for a luxury hotel ironically named Roots Resort. But Zuri (played by Melissa Kasaba) refuses to stand by and let this happen. Sparked by the enduring spirit and legacy of the late Prof Wangari Maathai, she resists greed, corruption and ecological destruction. She channels a generation into a fearless movement armed with a digital space and science. Zuri’s defiance speaks to the urgency of COP30, the United…

German youth orchestra pays moving tribute to Raila Odinga at Opoda Farm [Courtesy/Gabriel Oguda/X] A youth orchestra from Germany staged a heartfelt performance at Opoda Farm in Bondo to celebrate and honour the life and legacy of the late Rt Honourable Raila Odinga. The JUGGE Youth Orchestra filled the evening with stirring harmonies, including a rendition of the timeless Kenyan classic Jambo Bwana, as the tribute extended late into the night. The 65-member ensemble, accompanied by nine chaperones and led by the Mayor of Gersthofen City, Michael Wörle, travelled thousands of kilometres from Gersthofen, Germany, to the Odinga family home in…

Leah Warii explores self-expression in bold solo exhibition at Nairobi Gallery [Anjellah Owino/Standard] At the Nairobi Gallery, Leah Warii’s solo exhibition, In the In Between, gathers works she once hesitated to show publicly. The exhibition opened on October 10 and runs until November 29. It features paintings created between 2024 and 2025, spanning a range of styles and subjects, from birds and animals to portraits and abstract paintings. It’s a body of work that isn’t confined to one theme. Warii explains that what binds the works all together is self-expression. “It’s about getting myself out there regardless of what I feel…

Tea with my father: Gitura-Kamau’s stirring reflection on fathers, sons, healing In Tea with My Father, veteran Kalasha-winning actor and playwright Gitura-Kamau stands alone on stage, confronting the weight of a strained relationship between him and his dying father. The one-man play, staged on October 29 at the Kenya National Theatre, follows Muchiri Koome, a middle-aged man who returns home from South Africa after learning that his father is on his deathbed. His father lies in a coma, unresponsive, and Muchiri is torn between bidding farewell and confronting him for being a distant parent. The play unfolds in the ICU…

The Last Confession: Bold play confronts corruption in Kenya’s justice system At a time when the judiciary is facing corruption claims and delayed justice, playwright and director Martin Abuya is holding up a mirror to the judiciary with his play, The Last Confession. Set for stage on November 1 and 2 at the Kenya National Theatre, the play is produced by Wreiner Mandu under Igiza Arts, which has, this year, staged Fractured Ties, Threads of Trust, and The Anointed Cartel, with the latter speaking truth to power. “We’ve examined police brutality, religion, and the state before; it was only fair…

Tevin Ngunjiri’s ‘The Beer or the Mug’ exhibition challenges society’s definitions of self The Beer or the Mug, an exhibition by Tevin Noel Ngunjiri, explores the conflict between personal agency and social constructs. Opened on October 21 and running until November 1 at Munyu Space in Nairobi, it acts as a rebellion against what society deems unacceptable. Tevin unpacks this friction through landscapes of tree motifs: trees that sway and others that stand perfectly still amid turbulence. Based in Naivasha, he draws from its lush diversity of leaves and trees. Some pieces depict calm weather with restless trees, while others…

Art pieces on display during the Habitat exhibition in Westlands [Anjellah Owino, Standard] A villa in Westlands, Nairobi, was transformed into an art museum for a group art exhibition titled Habitat, where art and architecture intersect. At Elements Luxury Living, this exhibition invites viewers to walk through rooms and walls designed for home life now as spaces for artistic expression. Led by artist and art director Myrna van der Veen in collaboration with curator Linda Chao of Sena Art Gallery, Habitat brings together 13 artists: Adlan Yousif, Beverline Ashioya, Children of Wajukuu, Esther Oyeyemi, James Kamande, Jean D’Amour, Meshack Oiro, Ngugi…

Valentine Ziki wrote and is the performer behind the one-woman timely play, Mpenzi Mashini (photo courtesy) In this digital era, artificial intelligence (AI) companionship is picking up speed among people. Valentine Ziki wrote and is the performer behind the one-woman timely play, Mpenzi Mashini (Kiswahili for Dear Machine), which will be staged on October 30 at the Braeburn Theatre, Gitanga Road. It explores the fragile connection between humanity and technology, memory, and emotion. In a 2024 research by Dr Baris Demiralay titled The Rise of AI Companions: Psychological Effects of Artificially Intelligent Relationships, he detailed how people rely on AI for emotional support. It is a…

When actor, writer and producer Shirleen Wangari first staged Cards on the Table on Valentine’s Day, it was a crime and comedy play set in Nairobi in 1992, and romance, wit, and nostalgia ensued. Now, she’s bringing it back as a Christmas feature film adaptation. This festive heist film is set to premiere on November 29 at Century Cinemax, Garden City Mall. Shirleen loved the play, only she felt like it hadn’t reached as wide an audience as it deserved when it was staged at the Braeburn Theatre on Gitanga Road on Valentine’s Day; therefore, she wanted it as a film too. Also,…

Visual artist Collins Omondi’s phone went buzzing with a flood of messages and calls and thousands of followers on social media. His digital art tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga C.G.H., created in the wake of his death, had gone viral across the country. This isn’t the first time for the artist to go viral. In 2014, a pencil portrait of former president Uhuru Kenyatta in military regalia, then a Raila and Barack Obama portrait in 2015, and a Steve Harvey portrait in 2020. “Everyone has a God-given. This is what following your gift looks like, just…

Octopizzo manager and close friend, Victor Ongaya, passed away after a long battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) (photo courtesyOctopizzo/Facebook). Octopizzo is mourning the loss of his longtime manager and close friend, Victor Ongaya, who passed away after a long battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). In a tribute shared on his socials, Octopizzo revealed the pain of losing the man he described as the “creative genius behind my brand” and a true brother. In a separate heartfelt post, the Kibera-born rapper reminisced about their journey, recalling how Ongaya believed in him long before fame came calling. “He was the…

Raila’s iconic hat and traditional whisk were placed on top of it by his guard Maurice Ogeta (photo courtesy) After handfuls of soil were thrown onto Raila Odinga’s grave, to signify people’s final goodbye and respect, hundreds of mourners broke into song and dance. Carrying twigs and portraits of Raila, the crowd swayed, stomped, wailed, and circled the grave, their movements guided by centuries-old Luo funeral customs. Moments earlier, the grave had been sealed with cement, and the people carried on with their grief through elaborate dance and screams. The revered late prime minister was laid to rest at the…

Paul Onditi: Visual artist explores climate change, political instability in fresh exhibition Visual artist Paul Onditi’s solo exhibition, Another World is Possible 2, opened at the Alliance Française Nairobi on the evening of October 7. Running until October 31, the exhibition reflects on what another world means at a time of environmental decay and climate change. The exhibition features about 40 mixed media works that examine environmental degradation, a strong theme throughout Onditi’s practice. In many of his pieces, trees are going down to leave space for buildings. He views this entire exhibition as a commentary on how modernity brings…

Celebrated actress Celestine Gachuhi [Courtesy] After years away from theatre, seasoned actors Celestine Gachuhi and Mwikali Mary make their return in Of Cords and Discord. The two-hander drama thriller is showing from November 14 to 16 at Braeburn Theatre, Gitanga Road. The title of the play dives into the duality of familial relations through the portrayal of two sisters. The cords represent the umbilical and familial bonds and the love and kinship between the sisters. The discord is manifested as jealousy, betrayal, rivalry, favouritism, uncomfortable truths, and grief between them. The title is also an ode to musical chords, as…

After years away from the music scene, hiphop artiste Sharama, one of the founding forces behind Ukoo Flani, is back in the studio. The hiphop group that was once a trailblazer of conscious Kenyan hiphop is recording a new album titled Ndiyo Hii, slated for release in April 2026. Sharama speaks to us while recording the album at Wanene Entertainment in Dar es Salaam and shares that long-time rappers within the group, like Cannibal and Labalaa, are expected to record their parts sometime this month. Going back to the studio to work on the album has been a fulfilling experience for…

Sharon Gekonge’s ‘Myth of man’ challenges human superiority At Munyu Space, painter Sharon Kerubo Gekonge’s solo exhibition and installation, Myth of Man, draws viewers into a surreal world where penguins take on human forms. Running from September 26 to October 7, the exhibition presents 15 paintings and one large-scale installation that question humanity’s dominance over other living beings. Gekonge explains that the title was inspired by the concept she’s been exploring for the last four years, the belief that humans are somehow superior to animals and plants. Before this exploration, she was doing wildlife drawings and then moved into painting,…

Theatre meets protest in ‘The state on our throats’ On October 5, Chisaina Arts will stage The State on Our Throats at Ukumbi Mdogo, Kenya National Theatre. The political drama, written by Oyamo Richard and directed by Victor Muyekwe, interrogates land disputes and power during a boda boda association’s struggle against political exploitation. A piece of land is contested between a county governor and boda boda operators. The land was leased to Jamin, a boda boda rider, to be used for agribusiness by the boda boda association.    Without a clear lease agreement, Governor Madam Mapesa (played Naomi Wangui and…

Play brings back story of forgotten hero Bildad Kaggia A surge of interest in historical stories is drawing audiences to theatre wanting to learn about the figures who defined Kenya’s past.     For one such figure is Bildad Kaggia, whose public knowledge doesn’t go beyond his place among the Kapenguria Six— the nationalist leaders arrested in 1952 on suspicion of being a Mau Mau leader. It’s this gap that inspired playwright John Sibi-Okumu to write Kaggia and director Stuart Nash to revive the play this October. Nash, of Nairobi Performing Arts Studio, will present the production at the Kenya…

The Last Ones: Film exhibition captures Mt Kenya’s fading glaciers A photography exhibition titled The Last Ones by Trevor Maingi and Teti Sulu opened at The Good Grain in Nairobi. The exhibition explores the landscapes of Mount Kenya and the people whose lives intersect with them, documenting moments that are fading. Shot on film, the exhibition highlights the declining glaciers on the mountain, offering viewers an urgent perspective. Trevor explains that the idea behind The Last Ones is to give attention to stories and landscapes that are changing with time. His work mainly focuses on film photography, documentaries, travel, landscape…

Fresh initiative offers artists savings, insurance, credit access Ardhi Gallery and CPF Financial Services partnered to launch a financial inclusion platform for these visual artists. The platform—whose name is yet to be decided—is designed to empower artists with the financial tools they need to build sustainable livelihoods. It provides access to savings and interest-earning opportunities, a group credit system to borrow against pooled savings, trust accounts, grant proposal support to local and international funding, medical insurance, financial mentorship and literacy, royalties protection, and pension plans tailored to both emerging and established visual artists. Christine Oguna, founder of Ardhi Gallery with…

What your Zodiac element says about identity, self-care needs In astrological conversations, sun signs are typically at the fore. A sun sign is determined by the zodiac sign the sun was positioned in at the time of your birth, according to Astrology.com. Your sun sign influences how you naturally present yourself to the world—your core identity, strengths and weaknesses, romantic compatibility, and self-expression. Each of the zodiac signs also falls under one of the four elements: earth, water, air, and fire. Earth element People with earth signs—Virgo, Capricorn, and Taurus—are connected to the earth element, making them the most grounded…

Slow down by Lora Arts [Courtesy] For Laura Adongo, who goes by the name Lora Arts, digital art is a safe space in which to experiment and make mistakes, eventually producing striking work. Using only a laptop, drawing tablet and digital pen, she brings colourful subjects in various settings to life, with themes including rest, urban life and mental health. Laura loved drawing and painting before transitioning to digital art. Painting felt costly and did not give her enough room for mistakes, while digital art required fewer resources. It was her husband, an animator, who suggested she try it. She…

Charles Gachanja brings Bible stories to life in one-man comedy show A one-man performance that gives a modern twist to Biblical stories goes on stage today at the Nairobi Institute of Music & Performing Arts (Nimpa). Charles Gachanja is the solo performer and playwright for Charlie the Bible Explorer, a stage piece that weaves comedy, storytelling, and his personal reflections on Biblical narratives. Retelling stories from a widely read book, such as the Bible, calls for a captivating approach, something that made Charles lean into comic narration of these diverse Biblical stories without changing them, while offering the audience relatable…

What September’s Blood Moon means for moon lovers, spiritual seekers Moon lovers can step outside tonight to enjoy the full moon. Reaching its peak at 9 p.m. Kenyan time, this September full moon is known as the Corn Moon or Blood Moon, as it coincides with a total lunar eclipse. The name “Corn Moon” comes from the harvest season when corn is traditionally gathered, which is also why it is sometimes called the Harvest Moon. A full moon occurs when the sun and the moon sit on opposite sides of the Earth. Tonight’s full moon will align with a total…

Someday We Overflow: Sherie Ngigi’s messy exploration of vulnerability Sherie Margaret Ngigi’s new photography series titled Someday We Overflow has its subjects dripping blue slime to explore themes of exhaustion, grief, tenderness, release, and transformation. The slime represents an overflow of emotions that spill out when they can no longer be contained. Sherie explains that slime becomes a stand-in for what people carry in silence until it pours out, sometimes uncontrollably. The fine art photographer begins her creative process by thinking about the emotion she wants to capture: is it heaviness, release, suffocation, or freedom? From there, she says, she…

7 reasons why you should date an artist  Artists may seem like ordinary people, but being with one means living a story filled with depth, creativity, and passion. Their imaginative minds, unique personalities, and beautiful crafts bring a spark to romance that is unmatched. You will be their favourite muse For artists, inspiration often comes from their personal experiences, surroundings, and the people closest to them. As their romantic partner, you’ll likely become their muse, deepening the bond you share. Passion on tap With artists, passion is at the core of who they are. They pour intensity into both the…

Abu ‘n’ Wass by Pasha Productions when it was staged at Little Theatre Club [Courtesy] On his birthday, a taxi driver stumbles into an unexpected surprise – a bag mistakenly swapped with a client’s, containing 735,000 dollars. This is the predicament of a character in Abu ‘n’ Wass, a stage adaptation of the 1994 comedy farce Funny Money by Ray Cooney. Abu ‘n’ Wass was staged on the evenings of August 29 and 30 at the Little Theatre Club by Pasha Productions. When he gets home, Wass Bunda (played by Ashik Yusuf) tells his wife Mariam (Aisha Mwajumlah) that they must…

Dangerous Divas: Play unveils secrets of female friendships Women are popularly portrayed in art as loyal to everyone in their lives. Not the women in Dangerous Divas, a stage play that explores women’s friendships. In appearance, they are poised and prayerful women who adore the people in their lives. Within this four-woman circle, it is revealed that they are only loyal to themselves. Scripted and produced by Stephanie Maseki, Dangerous Divas goes on stage on September 6 and 7 at the Little Theatre Club in Mombasa. The four women—Jumla, Ria, Hani, and Anet—have been close friends since they met on…

7 perfect gift ideas for an art lover There are countless types of gifts, and the possibilities for art lovers are truly endless. Here are some ideal ideas for the creatives in your life. A box of art suppliesA set of art supplies—like watercolours, paintbrushes, acrylic paints, palettes, charcoal, and canvas—will delight them. These are perfect for those who want to explore their creativity through visual art. You could even be the spark that helps them rediscover their love for adult colouring. A museum dateExperiences can be just as meaningful as tangible gifts. Museums and other historical sites offer immersive…

Thirteen types of people you’ll find at the theatre Plays, poetry, spoken word, and other theatre performances draw in a particular kind of audience that adds to the vibrant tapestry of the theatre world. Here’s a look at some of the eccentric main characters of the auditorium. The CheerleaderThis is either a close relative of one of the performers or someone whose love for art simply overflows. Their joy is unmistakable: they laugh at every comedic moment, clap at every scene change or impressive performance, and proudly rise for a standing ovation during the curtain call. The cheerleader spreads this…

Artist Nduta Kariuki stands next to her works being showcased at Munyu Space [Anjellah Owino/Standard] Multidisciplinary artist Nduta Kariuki demonstrates her versatility in her debut solo exhibition, Dreamcatcher, which she collaborated on with her late father, Paul Kariuki. Opened on August 18 at Munyu Space in Nairobi, the exhibition features crocheted bags and clothes, portrait paintings, and nature photographs by Nduta, alongside wooden stools and tools crafted by her father. Here, Nduta primarily showcases functional art that viewers can touch, feel, and even use. This approach perfectly aligns with Munyu Space, a venue known for hosting unconventional artworks and exhibitions.…

Artist Nduta Kariuki stands next to her works being showcased at Munyu Space [Anjellah Owino/Standard] Multidisciplinary artist Nduta Kariuki demonstrates her versatility in her debut solo exhibition, Dreamcatcher, which she collaborated on with her late father, Paul Kariuki. Opened on August 18 at Munyu Space in Nairobi, the exhibition features crocheted bags and clothes, portrait paintings, and nature photographs by Nduta, alongside wooden stools and tools crafted by her father. Here, Nduta primarily showcases functional art that viewers can touch, feel, and even use. This approach perfectly aligns with Munyu Space, a venue known for hosting unconventional artworks and exhibitions.…

Mural artist Viktart Mwangi in action [Courtesy] If you’ve walked through Nairobi’s CBD, you’ve likely seen the colourful murals on buildings such as Extelcoms House and Customs House. Now, the artist behind these stunning works is inviting the public to get hands-on, handing out brushes so they can paint alongside him. Mural artist Viktart Mwangi is opening this next chapter of his artistic journey in response to curious onlookers who often asked if they could join him. When he first handed out paintbrushes, he noticed their excitement and interest in art, despite their lack of access to create. That reaction…

Tevin Noel Ngunjiri explores transformation in ‘Skin as a Noun, as a Verb’ [Courtesy] Skin as a Noun, as a Verb, is a retrospection of the ongoing process of personal transformation. The exhibiting artist Tevin Noel Ngunjiri explores its three phases that he titles deep introspection, attempts at actual change, and taking form. The exhibition, which opened at the Under the Swahili Restaurant on August 15, is aesthetically calming as it is layered. The paintings show new plants sprouting, as seen in a piece labelled Pruned Shoots. Some then emerge from the earth, as depicted in Rugged, and in Skin…

Ngugi wa Thiong’o unveiled as face of Kenya International Theatre Festival The late Prof. Ngugi wa Thiong’o has been named the face of this year’s Kenya International Theatre Festival (KITFEST), which will run from November 4 to 16. The announcement was made on August 13 at the Kenya National Theatre by the KITFEST Trust and the Kenya Cultural Centre (KCC). The honour is traditionally given to artistes who have made an indelible mark in shaping Kenyan theatre. Now in its 10th edition, KITFEST will feature more than 50 stage performances, street theatre shows, workshops, cultural nights, and the popular ‘nganya’…

Author Stephanie Wambugu (R) alongside her book Lonely Crowds [Courtesy] Debut novels are treasured by readers because they introduce them to an author who might become a favourite. They offer a chance to witness the beginning of an author’s journey, discover their style of writing, and, if enjoyed, follow them through the rest of their work. Here are some debut novels published this year by authors across the African continent. Lonely Crowds by Stephanie Wambugu Released on July 29, the novel tells the story of two outcasts who become friends while attending a Catholic girls’ school. Maria is an orphan…

Anita Kavochy seated next to her pieces at The African Arts Trust [Anjellah Owino/Standard] Opened August 15 at The African Arts Trust, the Forms of Fray showcase presents distinct explorations of the intimate interaction between memory and materiality. Anita Kavochy engages with everyday packaging, such as food and baby products, as her medium, weaving her experiences of motherhood into her art. By incorporating materials from the home environment, she merges her journey as a mother with her craft. “I want to show viewers my experiences as a mother and an artist,” she says. Her newest installation, Celebration of Life I,…

Guests pictured during the African Book Fair held at the Kenya National Library [Anjellah Owino/Standard] Bookworms Muthoni Muiruri and Wendy Njoroge met at a book club founded by the former. Wendy was then a member of the Soma Nami book club that was dedicated to African literature. The two saw that it was a challenge to locally find the books they wanted to read. They saw it as an opportunity to make books by African authors accessible in the country by co-founding a bookstore, Soma Nami Books. Two years in, they started their first annual African Book Fair, with its…

Actors on stage during the staging of Last Spear of Nandi at the Kenya National Theatre in Nairobi [Courtesy] Director and playwright Derrick Waswa of Dorion Production brings a historical play, Last Spear of Nandi: A Story of Koitalel Arap Samoei, to the Kenya National Theatre stage on August 16 and 17. The play tells the story of the Orkoiyot, the Nandi spiritual leader, and his prophecy on a railway and his ultimate resistance that led to his death. Before settling on this story, Derrick visited Nakuru to research which historical narrative to tell, with Koitalel’s story of patriotism captivating…

Guests view art pieces from ‘Maskan’ at Creatives Garage [Anjellah Owino/Standard] A chilling art installation about femicide and gender-based violence in Kenya opened on August 7 at Creatives Garage at The Mall Basement in Nairobi. Curated by Thayù, Maskan (translated to home) places femicide at its scene of crime and explicitly demonstrates how it is committed. As you enter the gallery, every turn you make, you are met with mannequins dressed in white petticoat nightgowns, showing that femicide victims are mostly attacked in the comfort of their homes. The gowns are stained with blood, and there are roses and tributes and photos…

Professor Kithaka wa Mberia [File/Standard] Kifo Kisimani, a play centering on themes of police brutality, corruption, and bad governance, was staged at the 800-seater Jain Bhavan auditorium in Loresho, Nairobi, after being highly anticipated for its bold depiction. For older audiences, it was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, as this was high school educational literature between 2006 and 2012, going beyond the four-year limit. For young audiences, this play carried some of their grievances addressed during the political protests since last year. However, Professor Kithaka wa Mberia says the staging of his beloved piece as nothing unusual for him.…

The play Fractured Ties by Igiza Arts staged at Kenya National Theatre in July [Courtesy] From heart-warming comedies from Heartstrings Entertainment and Crony Production, to provoking political and family dramas by Igiza Arts, to musical dramas by Youth Theatre Kenya, to one-person productions like It’s Such a Good Time (written by Sanchez Marley and Emmanuel Chindia), Index One (written by Ngartia and Wairimu Kagishu), an upcoming two-hander Becoming Again… the list is becoming a never-ending scroll. Actor, writer and producer Shirleen Wangari recently made her playwright debut with Cards on the Table, which she wrote, starred in, and produced. The piece followed two former lovers who spent…

A viewer attending the Cross Perspectives on Kenyan Society exhibition in Nairobi [Courtesy] Two generations of Kenyan artists, Joseph Mbatia Bertiers and Newton Eshivachi, team together to document the condition of Kenyan society in their view in an exhibition titled Cross Perspectives on Kenyan Society. Curated by Charles Courdent, the exhibition that opened at Alliance Française Nairobi on Tuesday runs until August 31. The two artists conveyed the title of the exhibition through contrasting lenses. Veteran artist Bertiers imparts his famous satirical and humorous element that speaks of Kenya’s post-colonial history with six large paintings and four life-size sculptures. Emerging artist…

Rewind, Remix, Reclaim exhibition set off a vibrant, multi-site experience at both the Alliance Française (AF) Nairobi and Goethe-Institut Nairobi. (Photos by Anjellah Owino, Standard) It’s not every day that an art exhibition opens across two venues, but Rewind, Remix, Reclaim did just that, setting off a vibrant, multi-site experience at both the Alliance Française (AF) Nairobi and Goethe-Institut Nairobi. Curated by Kenyan writer and filmmaker Wanjeri Gakuru, on the evening of July 17, the all-women group exhibition commemorates the 40th anniversary of the landmark 1985 UN World Conference on Women held in Nairobi, a defining moment in global conversations…

Hillary Namanje Mtana (Hillary Namanje) and his family (photo courtesy) In August, Air 001, a stage play, will be shown at the Little Theatre Club (LTC) in Mombasa, directed by Hillary Namanje and Mbashir Shambi. Interestingly, Hillary’s directorial debut in 2002 was with the staging of the English adaptation of the classic farce Boeing-Boeing by French playwright Marc Camoletti. Air 001 is an adaptation of Boeing-Boeing, both brought to life on the LTC stage, decades apart. When he first directed it, it was a time when the British, the founders of the theatre as a recreation centre for the British Royal Navy, had left. It left…

Author George Gathiani [Courtesy] At four years old, George Gathiani was fascinated with books about plant animals. As he pondered on this, a curiosity about stories about human beings sprouted, and so did his liking for biographies. Now a non-fiction writer, George has penned biographies and his latest, ‘Halfway to Damascus’ published by Wanderer’s Path Publishers examines intergenerational conflicts. The book was launched on June 7 at Lava Latte Café in Nairobi. What does the title of this book mean? It is a reference to the biblical story of Saul, who was struck with blindness when he was halfway to…

Actor Mary Khavere popularly known as Mama Kayai [File/Standard] Veteran actor Mary Khavere, best known for her role as Mama Kayai in the popular TV series Vitimbi, has been honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award in Performing Arts at the Myogenic Excellence Awards in the United States. The ceremony took place at the United Brethren Restoration Centre in Raleigh, North Carolina. The awards coincided with the Myogenic Africa Mentorship Programme, which supports emerging creatives in Africa and the diaspora. “We’re looking forward to an amazing event, the 2025 Myogenic Mentorship Program and Excellence Awards at UBRC Raleigh, North Carolina, on July…

‘Unfurling the object of my rage’ art exhibition; a collaborative mixed media showcase by Chela Yego and Cynthia Nyakiro [Courtesy] An evocative exhibition titled ‘The Unfurling of My Abject Rage’ opened at Munyu Space, Nairobi, last weekend. It will run until 7 August. This collaborative mixed media showcase by Chela Yego and Cynthia Nyakiro delves deep into the emotions of rage. The two artists purposefully utilised soft and fragile materials such as handmade paper, hair, and flower petals to create a contrast in conveying the intense weight of rage. They also examined the link between abjection and rage, referencing the…