The Prime Minister (Katikkiro) of Buganda Kingdom, Charles Peter Mayiga, was left in awe following a remarkable performance during Alex Mukulu's stage play Kulunkalu ne Kulumbisi at the National Theatre on April 14, 2024.

The Katikkiro arrived at the National Theatre at around 7:00pm to watch the stage play, which is the Ugandan adaptation of English playwright William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.

Upon arrival, he was warmly welcomed by officials from the Uganda National Cultural Center, led by the executive director, Francis Peter Ojede, the newly-appointed board of trustees, vice-chairperson Phina Mugerwa, National Cultural Forum (NCF) chairperson Daniel Kazibwe, and several others.

The performance commenced at around 7:30pm amid high anticipation as attendees prepared for the romantic piece. With performers energetically dancing and jumping to set the stage for what promised to be an unforgettable experience, the Katikkiro was visibly delighted, smiling and laughing in enjoyment throughout.

The audience erupted in applause as Alex Mukulu took the stage, dressed in a white sweater-suit adorned with black spots, and sporting a durag reminiscent of child singer Fresh Kid, perhaps reflecting the dressing style of the New Generation.

Armed with his guitar, Mukulu captivated the audience with his dance moves and impressive guitar chords, setting the mood for the evening.

As the play unfolded, the audience was treated to a captivating performance filled with comedy, dance, and drama, as Mukulu narrated different stories and touched on various topics affecting Uganda. The young performers of his team brought these narratives to life through their vibrant performances.

The play ended with Mukulu calling upon Ugandans to unite, love one another, and work together to uplift the country in economic, political, and social spheres.

Speaking at the event, Mayiga expressed gratitude to the veteran stage play actor for organising such a remarkable and educational piece, noting the creativity and intellect required to orchestrate such an endeavour.

He emphasised the importance of experienced performers like Mukulu in guiding and training the younger generation in the art of theatre.

Addressing concerns about the decline of theatre due to the rise of the internet, the Katikkiro acknowledged the emergence of new media as a significant development, but stressed that quality would always remain paramount to audiences.

He reassured theatre enthusiasts that while the internet may offer convenience and speed, the timeless appeal of live theatre would endure.

"The internet allows anyone to explore acting and creativity, but I want to reassure theatre enthusiasts that quality remains irreplaceable. The internet represents a new change and with people always follow change," Mayiga remarked.

"Online platforms may offer speed, but theatre demands patience and refinement. I firmly believe that theatre will endure, unless those who understand its essence relinquish it, but I see them here," he emphasised, pointing at Mukulu. 

Encouraging creatives in the theatre space to continue producing high-quality pieces that entertain, inform, and educate, the Katikkiro refuted the notion portrayed in Kulunkalu ne Kulumbisi that the country is doomed, assuring attendees that better days are ahead.

The event concluded with a photo session as the cast and crew, along with the Katikkiro and other attendees, captured memories under the glow of camera flashes.