Former news anchor Ken Wakuraya is set to return to the stage after 12 years, taking a lead role in the upcoming Gikuyu musical production Waiyaki Wa Hinga, a move that has stirred nostalgia among theatre lovers who remember the golden era of vernacular stage performances.
The production, directed by Lawrence Murage, will run on 8th, 9th and 10th, bringing back a format of live storytelling that once dominated Kenya’s entertainment landscape before the rise of digital content.
Wakuraya’s return is being received not only as a personal comeback, but also as a reminder of the strong cultural influence theatre once held in shaping public entertainment and community storytelling.
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The play revisits the legendary story of Waiyaki Wa Hinga, blending drama, music and cultural history in a format that reflects traditional stage production values while incorporating modern performance styles.
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The cast features Dival Gathoni, Njeri wa Kamau, Shish Madivani, Mzee Lawrence, FlowFlaani, Pablo Kimani, Wairimu wa Mwangi, Andrew Ng’ang’a, Matere James, Nyce Njeri and Thuita Mwangi, forming a strong ensemble of experienced vernacular actors.
Interest in the production has been rising steadily, with audiences showing renewed appetite for live theatre experiences that offer authenticity, cultural depth and direct emotional engagement.
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Wakuraya’s comeback is now being seen as part of a broader cultural revival, where audiences are reconnecting with stage productions that celebrate language, heritage and live performance artistry.
