500 artistes to participate in Kampala International Theatre festival

KAMPALA - A total of 500 artistes will take part in the 11th edition of the Kampala International Theatre Festival which will take place at the National Theatre and Kamwokya Treasure Life Youth Centre (KTLC) from Thursday (November 20) and close on Sunday (November 24).

The participants were selected from over 10 countries including Uganda, Kenya, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Colombia, Ghana, Rwanda, the UK, Sudan, France, Germany, and Nigeria. 

Attendees can anticipate a rich buffet of performances; from thought-provoking dramas to innovative experimental works, ensuring an entertaining and inspiring experience that explores a wide range of themes and styles.

According to Asiimwe Deborah Kawe, the director of Arts at Tebere Arts Foundation, Uganda, the five-day cultural extravaganza promises to captivate audiences with a vibrant mix of theatrical performances, workshops, discussions, and immersive experiences, welcoming theatre enthusiasts from around the globe to Kampala. 

“KITF is a renowned annual event held in Uganda every November, celebrating the vibrant world of theatre and It showcases diverse productions from local and international artists; offering workshops, panel discussions, and immersive theatrical experiences,” she said at a press conference which the foundation members held at the National Theatre on Monday.

She said the festival has fostered artistic growth, and it promotes cultural exchange and uses theatre as a platform for social commentary.

“The festival has played a significant role in nurturing Uganda's artistic landscape for 11 years, providing opportunities for local and international artists to showcase their work and connect with a wide audience,” she said.

Tebere Arts Foundation director of operations and marketing Kenneth Kimuli aka Pablo said the unfavorable social, economic situations in the world today call for the use of theatre in addressing these challenges. 

“In a turbulent and divided world, theatre can offer refuge, a place to think through the dilemmas together, offering moments of reflection and most importantly time for solidarity and celebration,” he said.

The festival will host 15 workshops led by renowned theatre practitioners, offering invaluable insights and skills to aspiring and established artists. Notable workshops include:

• Puppetry Workshop by AD Creatrix (Uganda) and Enraizados Teatro Artesania (Bogotá, Colombia)

• Clowning and Physical Theatre by Sophie Besse (UK) and Peter Pearson (UK)

• Object/Visual/Non-Verbal Theatre by O Team (Germany)

• Found Objects by world renowned scenographer, Rob Eastman Mullins