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COUNTY THEATRE FIESTA 2025 SPARKS ARTSTIC GROWTH IN KIAMBU AND NYERI
The 2025 edition of the County Theatre Fiesta, a flagship capacity-building initiative by the Kenya Cultural Centre incorporating the Kenya National Theatre, in partnership with the Kenya International Theatre Festival Trust, entered its second phase with Kiambu as the host county and Nyeri as the guest county.
This electrifying edition brought together young and vibrant theatre groups from both counties, creating a dynamic space where creativity, artistic expression, and collaboration thrived.
The programme commenced with virtual training sessions held from 12th to 24th May 2025, laying a solid foundation for the intensive physical training that followed from 29th May to 8th June at the Nairobi Institute of Music and Performing Arts (NIMPA).
Seven theatre groups took part in this edition. Nyeri County was represented by Grind and Vibez and ETOS Production, while Kiambu County featured Ndumberi Arts, KRAC Theatre, Beatitude Group of Arts, Peatice, and Dancevarsity Network—each with a team of 10 members. The program encouraged cross-county learning, cultural exchange, and the creation of lasting artistic networks.
On Day 3 of the physical training, participants had the opportunity to engage in a special talk with Mitchell Sommers, a seasoned actor, director, and educator from North Carolina. With over 30 years of experience in community theatre, education, and mentorship, Mitchell delivered a heartfelt session that left a lasting impression.
He spoke passionately about the transformative power of storytelling and performance in building confidence, connection, and community. His insights served as a powerful reminder of how theatre can influence not only the stage but also society at large.
A major highlight of the fifth day was a tree-planting initiative that aligned with Kenya’s “15 Billion National Tree Growing and Restoration Campaign.” Led by Mr. Benson Ngobia, Director of KITFest, the team planted over 150 indigenous trees at Roysambu Primary School.
The final phase of the program featured public performances showcasing the participants’ growth and creativity.
- On 6th June, Beatitude Group of Arts performed “Tumaini, a Kenyan Story” at 4 PM, followed by Grind and Vibez with “Ashes of Honour” at 6 PM.
- On 7th June, ETOS Production presented “The Whispers” at 2 PM, Ndumberi Arts performed “Ninajuta” at 4 PM, and Dancevarsity Network staged “Silent Uprising” at 6 PM.
- On the grand finale day, KRAC Theatre presented “Roots of the Forgotten”, and Peatice wrapped up the showcase with “A Decade of Cultural Chaos.”
These performances demonstrated the remarkable progress and bold storytelling of the participants, earning standing ovations and valuable feedback from trainers and fellow artists.
The closing ceremony presided over by Mr. Kevin Kimani Kahuro, Manager of Programs and Business Development, celebrated the exceptional presentations and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to nurturing the arts. Two outstanding groups, Grind and Vibez (Nyeri) and KRAC Theatre (Kiambu), were awarded a fully sponsored residency at the Kenya National Theatre from 27th October to 2nd November 2025. They will represent their counties at the Kenya International Theatre Festival (KITFest) in November 2025.
