The promotion of Nakuru Town to city status has elevated artwork, and finally, the long-persevering, determined, and resolute artists, such as the renowned Mr. Joseph Maina alias Babushe, are finally reaping the rewards of their tenacity.
Speaking today at the Nakuru Player’s Theater, which was constructed by the colonial administration in 1949, Maina said his story and that of a few other artists who stood with him is a legend of how diligence, determination, and grit never fail.
However, he attributed the change in attitude towards art and drama to the younger executives who have joined the newest city and have come with better tastes and values for life.
He said, “The older folks of this town, despite having money, never valued artwork, and during those days when we staged dramas, it was only students who had selected school playbooks who used to attend and a few street children who had nothing to do. Of course, they never paid.’’
But finally, the play which will be staged next week, ‘AIKIN MATA’ has already sold out, and it wasn’t cheap, but the tickets were quickly snapped up, and he can’t help but celebrate the Providence that has brought his poverty to an end.
‘Babushe’ who has acted in a number of television and radio plays in the country, including the famous ‘Plot 10’ said all his life since he left campus has been about acting, yet he has nothing to show for it except personal fulfilment.
He noted that, much as he would have easily gotten a job or joined the business community, none of those things brought him joy like acting on stage or directing plays.
The thespian appreciated that UNESCO recognised his talent and enabled him to train actors across Africa. But, as many opportunities as there were out there, he always felt compelled to come back home to Nakuru to promote drama.
The ‘AIKIN MATA’ play that will be staged from August 10th to August 12th charges individuals Sh1000 and groups of six people Sh4000.
By Veronica Bosibori
