Hope and Shine Kibera Centre and School

KIBERA COMMUNITY THEATRE PROGRAM PROGRESS REPORT Date: 26th March, 2026
Location: Hope and Shine Kibera Centre, Kibera
Program: Community Theatre for Children in Kibera.

1. OVERVIEW.
The Kibera Community Theatre Program continues to evolve into a dynamic, impactful and transformative learning space for participating children. Over the recent sessions, there has been a clear and measurable progression not only in technical skill acquisition but also in children’s confidence, creativity and understanding of performance as a powerful form of communication beyond spoken language.
The program is successfully fostering a holistic learning environment where artistic expression, discipline and collaboration intersect to support the children’s overall development.

2. OBSERVED PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT
The growth demonstrated by the children has been both significant and encouraging. Through consistent engagement with physical theatre techniques, learners have developed an increased awareness of their bodies as expressive instruments. Key Areas of Growth:
a) Creative Expression and Imagination
They are now approaching tasks with greater originality, curiosity and confidence. There is a noticeable improvement in their ability to generate movement, interpret abstract concepts and translate emotions into physical expression.
b) Understanding of Non-Verbal Communication
They are increasingly internalizing the principle that meaning can be effectively communicated without reliance on voice. Their physical storytelling skills have become more intentional, controlled and expressive.
c) Confidence and Participation
There has been a marked increase in their willingness to take creative risks. They are more open to presenting their work, performing before their peers and actively contributing ideas during collaborative devising processes.


d) Critical Thinking and Interpretation
The children are developing an appreciation for multiple perspectives in performance. They are beginning to understand that theatrical meaning is not fixed but can be interpreted differently by diverse audiences, reflecting a growing capacity for critical engagement.


3. EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING: KENYA DRAMA FESTIVAL VISIT
A key milestone in the program was the outdoor learning experience where they attended the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival. This exposure provided a valuable extension of classroom practice and introduced learners to high-quality performances across a range of styles and genres.
Impact of the Experience:
• Students demonstrated active and attentive engagement with live performances.
• The majority confidently expressed their interpretations and insights.
• Learners effectively articulated their emotional responses and observations.
• Post-performance discussions reflected increased confidence, analytical thinking and critical engagement.
This experience significantly enriched their understanding of theatre as both an art form and a medium of communication.

4. ATTENDANCE AND COMMITMENT
The introduction of compulsory attendance has yielded highly positive results. The program has consistently achieved a 100% attendance rate, reflecting strong commitment, discipline and enthusiasm among the learners. This consistency has greatly strengthened:
• Ensemble cohesion
• Continuity in skill development
• Overall program effectiveness

5. SCHEDULING ADJUSTMENTS: SATURDAY SESSIONS
With the commencement of Lion King rehearsals scheduled every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, adjustments have been proposed to optimize student engagement and well-being.
Proposed Adjustment
• A 2-hour break following rehearsals.
• An afternoon theatre session conducted in the same venue.
• Students to be released directly home after the final session.
Rationale
• Minimizes unnecessary movement and logistical disruptions.
• Maintains continuity of engagement throughout the day.
• Supports better energy management and student focus.

6. HOLIDAY PERIOD: PROPOSED ADDITIONAL SESSIONS
The upcoming holiday period presents a strategic opportunity to deepen training and accelerate progress.
Proposal
• Introduction of two additional weekday sessions.
Purpose
• Sustain learning momentum.
• Advance performance development.
• Refine physical theatre techniques.
• Provide structured and meaningful engagement during the holidays.
Expected Benefits
• Accelerated skill acquisition.
• Stronger ensemble cohesion.
• Increased productivity and creative output.
• Positive and constructive use of their free time.

7. CONCLUSION
The Theatre Program is steadily establishing itself as a powerful platform for nurturing creativity, discipline, collaboration and self-expression. The children have demonstrated remarkable growth in movement-based communication, confidence and critical analysis. With continued support and the proposed strategic enhancements, the program is well-positioned to achieve even greater impact and success in the coming phases.

Prepared by:
Teacher Calcine & Teacher Irene
Drama & Performance Facilitators.

To donate to our course, kindly use the GoFundMe link below

https://www.gofundme.com/f/donate-to-support-kibera-kenya-youth-fund

Exams before breaking for easter holidays

Pole pole ndio mwendo

We keep on moving.

Goodies for mid semester break

Exam time before breaking for mid semester