Known for their high level of professionalism and quality productions, we are excited to learn that Youth Theatre Kenya (YTK) has a new show coming to the stage this month.
YTK is now in its tenth year. As a training ground for young actors, the cast, crew and musicians are all between the ages of 11 and 25 and come from various parts of the country and every socioeconomic background. .
As well as running workshops and smaller productions through the course of the year, YTK produces one major musical production annually. YTK is supported by Ghetto Classics, an organisation based in Korigocho, which supports young musicians from the informal settlements of Nairobi, in both the cast and orchestra.
This year Nairobi will be treated to the performance of Albatross – Wings of Freedom, written by a founding member of YTK, Lizzie Jago, with original music by Anna Rusbatch, former Head of Music at Braeburn School.
Albatross is a gripping and moving musical based on the story of the East African slave trade in the 19th century. This magical musical delves deep into African history, exploring many different aspects of slavery and freedom. It intertwines mythical folklore with historical fact and highlights the importance of redemption and forgiveness.
Featuring musicians from Ghetto Classics and the National Youth Orchestra of Kenya, the musical follows the story of Bishop Charles Smythies, Anglican Bishop of Zanzibar who fought tirelessly against the trade until his death in 1894. During this time he set up a mission for freed slaves. As well as Smythies, we follow the lives of Cecil Wajawila (the first freed slave to be ordained a priest in the church), the ‘Mission Mamas’ (also freed slaves), the children of the mission and, indeed the traders and the trade itself. It is, in turns, funny, thought provoking, sad and deeply moving.
First performed by Braeburn School at the International Youth Arts Festival in London to standing ovations in 2014, YTK performed Albatross Wings of Freedom in Nairobi, again to standing ovations in 2016. The play is dedicated to all those in slavery – both in the past and the 46 million human beings in slavery today.
Friday 26 – Sunday 28 2024 | Tickets available on madfun.com