Why The Kenya National Theatre Has Been Shut Down

By Getrude Mathayo / Published November 16, 2023 | 3:22 pm

The Kenya National Theatre has been closed temporarily until April 2024 for scheduled maintenance work.

On Wednesday, the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Ababu Namwamba, presided over a contract handover ceremony for the renovation of the iconic Kenya National Theatre (KNT) in Nairobi.

Sports CS awarded a renovation tender of Ksh 167 Million to a bidder to uplift the facility. The ceremony, attended by key figures in the arts and culture sector, marked a pivotal moment in the government’s commitment to fostering talent development and nurturing within the country

Additionally, CS Ababu further appointed a new board of members consisting of 12 individuals who will oversee the operations of the theatre over the next two years.

KNT Board Chair Capt. Kungu Muigai and CEO Michael Pundo were among the guests accompanied by CS Ababu Namwamba. During the presentations of the letters of appointment to the new board, the CS clarified that the renovations were necessary to elevate the standards of the facility as it is set to boost the ministry’s quest to identify, nurture, and monetize talents.

“The CS, who was hosted by KNT Board chair Capt. Kungu Muigai, alongside CEO Michael Pundo, said that the renovation will see the theatre transformed into a modern facility that supports multiple talent development and nurturing,” a statement by KNT read.

The Kenya National Theatre (KNT) is the largest proscenium theatre space in Kenya. It is a government agency under the Ministry of State for National Heritage and Culture in Kenya. It is based in the capital city Nairobi, bordering the historical landmarks Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), and the University of Nairobi (UON).

KNT offers space for diverse rehearsal, production, and staging of drama, live musical concerts, plays, and dance, to both local and international clientele.