Friday Night Lights returns with teacher victor at Bat Valley Theatre

The second season of Friday Night Lights—a theatre extravaganza dedicated to showcasing new playwrights—kicked off last Friday at Bat Valley Theatre with a mix of thematic simplicity and captivating spectacle.

The spotlight was on playwright Yusuf Kinene, affectionately known as Teacher Victor among his peers.

The evening began with red carpet moments, though apart from a few eccentric outfits, there was little to remark on. The highlight of the opening was Kinene’s dramatic entrance, seated in a kingly manner, which added a touch of over-the-top comedy.

However, the regal presentation felt somewhat out of place for a platform designed to nurture emerging talent, unless Kinene’s ambitions are confined solely to that stage.

The play, titled Teacher Victor, stood out for its efficiency. Kinene’s ability to economize time and language is refreshing in an era where many playwrights stretch their productions to excessive lengths. Clocking in at two hours, the play explores the complex and often troubling dynamics between teachers and students. It delves into the financial dealings between Victor (played by Kinene) and his students, which spiral out of control when the school bursar uncovers their transactions.

Mariam Ndagire, the founder of Friday Night Lights, shared her vision for the initiative: “The idea is to reawaken the love for theatre. We bring new playwrights and directors to audiences.” Ndagire, a renowned figure in Ugandan theatre and a director at Afri Talent Drama Group, made her mark in the early 2000s as an actress, playwright, and director. “I want to retire from theatre in the hands of capable people,” she added, emphasizing her commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent.

Friday Night Lights takes place every last Friday of the month at Bat Valley Theatre, offering a platform for fresh voices and innovative storytelling in Uganda’s theatre scene.