A production that has featured in both Nairobi as well as in the United States will be among those hoping to perform well at this year’s prestigious Sanaa Theatre Awards, which are set to take place this month at the refurbished Kenya National Theatre.
A Man Like You has received numerous nominations in various categories – it was inspired by the real life events of 21st September 2013, when terrorists opened fire on shoppers at the Westgate Mall, killing 67 people and injuring many more. Two men try and defend their views within a concrete room in Somalia and makes for gripping viewing.
Voting is still open in categories that span from Actress and Actor, to Costumes, Direction and Production. It’s great to see talent behind the scenes recognized in the world of theatre, and hopefully the event receives more than just a cursory nod from those who speak about exporting Kenyan culture.
The 4th edition of the awards ceremony will be taking place on the 14th of December, and Sports and Culture CS Hassan Wario will be the event’s chief guest.
Some of the top categories across the board are:
Best Actor
Robert Agengo, FCA, Diplomat’s Wife
Ashik Yussuf, Don Geronimo, LTC
Maina Olwenya, A man like you
Best Actress
Bernice Nthenya for her role in Kiss of Death directed by Kamau Ndungu
June Gachui – Three Fold Cord
Veronica Waceke, Gilb ‘Art Productions , Edufa
Best Actress in a Supporting Role
Stephanie Masike, Don Geronimo, LTC
Maryanne Nungo, FCA, Nuts+
Elizabeth Ngugi Playing (Candace) in the play Storm in the City By FCA KENYA.
Best Actor in a Supporting Role
Maina Olwenya, Gilb ‘Art Productions, Edufa
Joe Kinyua for his role in ‘Who’s Your Daddy?’ by Martin Kigondu
Best Actor Irshad Abdullaziz, Euthanasia by Kenyatta University
Best Director
Sammy Mwangi, My Fish My Choice
Hillary Namanje, Don Geronimo, LTC
Amar Desai, Jungle Book
Silvia Cassini, ‘A Man like You’
Distinguished Diaspora Award – President Barack Obama Award
Lupita Nyong’o
Moipei Quartet
Odera Owiso
Edi Gathegi
For the rest of the nominees and to vote for your favourites, head over HERE