Rongo University came alive last weekend as students from universities across Nyanza region converged to participate in the 6th Kenya Universities Performing Arts and Film Association (KUPAA) National Drama Festival hosted by the institution.
Budding actors, dancers, models and storytellers breathed life into the stage set for artistic expression and creativity with their breathtaking performances, each aiming to leave a lasting mark on the audience.
From dons and drama patrons to students, nothing was left to chance as the host varsity led guests – Kisii University, Great Lakes University of Kenya, Maseno University, Kaimosi Friends University and Masinde Muliro University – to showcase music, dances, spoken word, plays, oral narratives, solo verses, modern dances, comedy and parodies among other performances.
Some of the dignitaries who graced the event include Dr. Nyambane and Dr. Maleya Mary (Drama patrons) from Kaimosi University, and Prof. Hussein from Masinde Muliro among other lecturers from various campuses. KUPAA Chairman and alumnus Ombija Odhiambo was also present.
Themes in focus during the festival included bad governance, political dishonesty, social issues facing citizens, drug abuse and unity among others.
Kisii University wowed the audience with a modern dance and English play addressing social issues with a mix of humor and drama. Not forgetting the Great Lakes University with a spoken word ‘And that is how the society made us grow up’ which highlighted the cry of a girl child and how society is unfair to them.
The spoken word piece left the audience emotional as the host entered the stage with an oral narrative that dramatized political dishonesty and unfulfilled promises entitled; ‘Tumetenga’ performed by Edna Mursoi and her partner. The stellar performance left the audience in awe, with nothing left but to offer a deserved standing ovation.
Maseno University displayed a gripping performance where actors presented a comedy performance that lightened the mood and left the audience in stitches before Masinde Muliro tackled the need for unity through a spoken word performance.
The audience was on the edge of their seats as each university took the stage, bringing unique flavor to the festival. Judges looked on thoughtfully, making notes as the performances unfolded. With all universities bringing their ‘A’ game, the competition was fierce. Each performance added a unique touch, from dramatic monologues to comical sketches.
“It was nerve-wracking but exhilarating,” said Edna, one of the lead actors from Rongo University’s play, Downtown Dilemma. “We have been preparing for weeks and seeing the crowd’s reaction made all the effort worth it.”
“I was blown away by the talent on display, it was amazing seeing my schoolmates in a whole new light,” shared Ann, a student.
The drama students’ hard work and collaboration contributed to the exhilaration during the festival, from painting the drums, arranging the stage, costume design, set creation to rehearsals.
YOU MAY ALSO READ:
“Good old drama is part of literature. It’s a form of entertainment and reduces mental illness. In addition, it’s a reflection of our experience and enhances interaction since it promotes inter-ethnic integration,” said Dr. Nyambane.
He lauded the performers saying continuous practice shall open doors to them and empower them to earn a living through their talents.
“Drama brings us together in ways we never imagined. It’s not just about competition, it’s about building bonds and sharing stories,” Ombija said.
Dr. Maleya Mary said that drama faces challenges including inadequate funding, scarcity of resources, students balancing between education and drama activities, and also the notion that artistic activities are a waste of time.
She noted that such events foster creativity, boosts self-esteem and confidence, and nurtures talent at a personal level. It is also a form of entertainment, education and a tool that enhances interaction among individuals from different walks of life.
As the curtains closed with models cat-walking in their custom designs, the audience felt more connected than ever despite hailing from different universities.
By Faith Oloo
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
