Trial of Dedan Kimathi: Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o’s Masterpiece to Ignite Kenyan Stage with Unmatched Drama

• The Kenya National Theatre is set to host the play Trial of Dedan Kimathi, which tells the story of one of Kenya's greatest heroes
• The play, written by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o and co-written with Micere Githae Mugo, brings to life the trial and execution of the late hero
• The play has been staged in different countries and even used as an educational tool here in Kenya

For the first time in 50 years, The Trial of Dedan Kimathi is coming to the Kenya National Theatre.

Kenyans are set to witness history come alive on stage as Kenyan stars are set to showcase what transpired during the colonial rule.

What is The Trial of Dedan Kimathi?

The Trial of Dedan Kimathi is a play written by the legendary Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o and co-written with Micere Githae Mugo, considered to be one of his best works.

It is a powerful theatrical work that dramatises the trial and execution of Dedan Kimathi, a key leader of the Mau Mau rebellion against British colonial rule in Kenya.

The play was first performed in 1976, and challenged the colonial narrative that painted Kimathi as a criminal, instead portraying him as a heroic figure fighting for Kenya’s independence.

It is structured around Kimathi’s trial, does not follow a conventional courtroom drama and incorporates historical events with symbolic and revolutionary themes.

The courtroom scenes highlight the racial segregation and injustice of colonial rule, while flashbacks and musical interludes depict the struggles of ordinary Kenyans under British oppression.

Kimathi’s refusal to recognise the colonial court’s authority is a central theme, reinforcing his role as a freedom fighter rather than a mere defendant.

The Trial of Dedan Kimathi has been involved in various socio-political discussions and performances that extend its impact.

The play has been staged in different countries, often in contexts that resonate with themes of resistance and liberation.

In Kenya, it has been used as an educational tool to inspire discussions on colonial history and national identity.

Stuart Nash and team set to bring back sensational piece

Now, after nearly half a century, the play will be showcased at the Kenyan National Theatre for 10 days, starting June 19 to June 29, 2025.

The play is directed by the renowned Stuart Nash, who is behind several other plays in Kenya, including I Will Marry When I Want and Sarafina.

Tickets are available on several platforms, including Kenyabuzz and Tikiti.

Some of the actors set to feature in the play include Lydia Gitachu, Mwaura Bilal, Jackie Mungai and Bhavnesh Chudasama.

Stuart told TUKO.co.ke that Kenyans will witness the untold resistance of Kenya's most celebrated hero who ended up paying the ultimate price.

He also noted that the performance will be in English and also in Kimathi's native language, Kikuyu.

Through its compelling narrative and dramatic intensity, The Trial of Dedan Kimathi remains a landmark in African literature, celebrating the resilience of those who fought for Kenya’s independence while challenging historical distortions of their struggle.

Echoes of War auditions announced by Cleophas Malala

Previously, TUKO.co.ke reported that another play that went viral in Kenya had started recruiting actors for the grand performance.

Echoes of War, a politically motivated play that was performed by Butere Girls' High School students up to Naitonal level, failed to feature after the girls walked off stage, sighting mistreatment.

The director, Cleophas Malala, vowed to ensure the play was performed at the biggest stage in Kenya with prime stars involved.

He launched auditions online, urging actors to download the script and perform a section of the play, then share the footage online.

So far, no information has been shared on those selected to take part in the play.

Source: TUKO.co.ke