The musical’s talent search includes auditions at Nakuru’s Old Town Hall.
Nairobi Performing Arts Studio is scouting performers and songwriters nationwide for a Safaricom Hook-backed musical with 24 roles and 10 original songs.
Game Iko On is searching across Kenya for young performers ahead of its March 2027 premiere at the Kenya National Theatre. Nairobi Performing Arts Studio is organising the musical with backing from Safaricom Hook.
The search targets actors, singers, dancers and songwriters, with auditions already held in Kisumu, Embu, Kakamega and Nakuru. Organisers expect to visit more towns as they assemble the production’s cast and music.
Game Iko On auditions target 24 roles
Speaking during auditions at Nakuru’s Old Town Hall, director Stuart Nash outlined the qualities the team wants. He said organisers were seeking performers with standout abilities in acting, singing or dancing.
The musical has 24 roles, although the skills required vary across the cast. Some parts combine acting and dance, while others demand particular strengths in movement and stage performance.
Successful performers will take the stage at the Kenya National Theatre in March 2027. A planned nationwide tour will follow, extending the production beyond its opening run.
Meanwhile, the auditions offer participants opportunities to collaborate with other creatives and develop their performance skills. The mix of theatre, music and dance also allows them to explore more than one discipline.
Songwriters compete for 10 places
Alongside casting, organisers are seeking original songs to shape the musical’s sound. They have received about 500 applications from songwriters hoping to contribute to its 10-song programme.
Selection of the songwriting finalists is scheduled for November 8 at Macujazi Central. Ten winners are expected to have their songs included in the production.
The opportunity also extends beyond live theatre performances. Plans include professional recordings, accompanying music videos and single releases for the selected songs.
Those releases will give emerging songwriters material for their portfolios, while helping their music reach audiences beyond the stage.
A platform for emerging creatives
Writer and assistant director Gadwill Odhiambo said the musical celebrates young people pursuing their ambitions despite difficult circumstances. The project aims to offer opportunities regardless of a performer’s background or entertainment industry connections.
For Safaricom Hook, the initiative also supports young people developing interests outside the classroom, including the performing arts. Safaricom marketing representative Nicolas Gachiri encouraged young creatives to pursue their ambitions as the musical seeks new faces.
