The Kenya International Theatre Festival (KIT Fest) 9th edition, promises a vibrant celebration of theatrical arts that bridges generations and cultivates emerging talent. This year’s festival introduces a host of new features and special celebrations, marking a significant milestone in Kenya’s theatrical landscape.
KIT Fest 2024 is breaking new ground with exciting lead-up activities designed to engage a wider audience and showcase diverse talents across the country. The Monologue Challenge, Playwrights Competition, and a revitalized County Theatre Fiesta are set to captivate theatre enthusiasts and discover hidden gems in Kenya’s performing arts scene.
In a strategic move to bridge traditional theatre with the digital age, KIT Fest has enlisted celebrated Kenyan actor and technology influencer Martin Githinji as this year’s Ambassador. Githinji’s role is pivotal in creating awareness and marketing the festival, to convert online followers into theatre audiences. His unique position as both a respected actor and content creator makes him an ideal choice to represent the festival’s forward-thinking vision.
At the heart of this year’s celebrations is a tribute to John Sibi Okumu, a veteran of Kenyan theatre, as he marks his 70th birthday. Named the Face of the Festival, Okumu’s selection honours his remarkable 50-year contribution to Kenyan theatre. Benson Ngobia, Executive Director of KIT Fest Trust emphasized the importance of recognizing Okumu’s impact: “As we experience a surge in theatrical activities these last few years, we have to celebrate the giants who kept theatre alive and excelled at it, inspiring and motivating new generations.”
The pairing of Sibi Okumu and Githinji as the Face and Ambassador respectively symbolizes KIT Fest’s ethos of blending timeless artistry with contemporary appeal. It’s a testament to the festival’s ability to honour its roots while embracing the future of theatre.
KIT Fest continues to be a nurturing ground for Kenyan artists, offering workshops and networking opportunities that enhance skills in often undertrained areas such as stage management and technical theatre. The festival’s commitment to fostering collaboration and professional development sets it apart as a catalyst for growth in Kenya’s theatrical community.
This year’s festival introduces the Playwright’s Challenge, aiming to shortlist 10 plays for production next year as part of KIT Fest’s 10th anniversary celebrations. The Monologue Challenge will also provide a platform for outstanding individual performers to showcase their talents during the festival.
What makes KITFest unique in the region is its comprehensive approach to theatre. As Ngobia pointed out, “We are the only festival in the region that also holds national awards, hosts a publishing house, and an online platform for theatre events.” This holistic approach to supporting and promoting theatre sets KIT Fest apart from other cultural festivals in Kenya and East Africa.
For this year’s attendees, Ngobia hopes they will gain a deeper appreciation for theatre and its potential. The festival aims to showcase local talent and international acts, providing a platform for cultural exchange and artistic growth.
Looking ahead, KIT Fest is poised to evolve into a powerhouse of opportunities for artists to share their craft globally and to professionalize their work. The festival’s unique position as the only theatrical event in the region that combines a festival, national awards, a publishing house, and an online platform for theatre events underscores its comprehensive approach to supporting and promoting theatre.
As KIT Fest 2024 starts, it stands as a beacon of theatrical excellence, a launchpad for emerging talents, and a tribute to the enduring legacy of Kenyan theatre. Through its diverse programs and initiatives, KIT Fest is not just celebrating the arts – it’s shaping the future of theatre in Kenya and beyond, promising an unforgettable experience for performers and audiences alike.
The curtain rises on possibility. Will you answer the call?
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