So you want to be an actor huh?
You must be familiar with
Nice Githinji,
Sarafina stars
Sheila Munyiva &
Brenda Wairimu,
Mkamzee Mwatela,
John-Sibi Okumu,Hellen Mtawali,
Martin Githinji: They're some of the definitive faces of theater acting in Kenya.
But they all started somewhere. Before they were household names, they were performers with ambition, just like you. A career in TV, Flm or theater is an exciting, glamorous, but challenging endeavor.
It is true that becoming a TV, film or theater actor is easier said than done, but if performing is what you love to do, there's no reason you too can't make it happen for yourself. You will need a bevy of tools though. And here's where
Nairobi Performing Arts Studio(
NPAS) comes in
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Sarafina Cast[/caption]
Nairobi Performing Arts Studio is the powerhouse behind the critically-acclaimed "
Kenyanized" stage productions
Sarafina, Annie, Jesus Christ Superstar &
Grease.Founded in 2016 by
Stuart Nash in partnership with
Kenya National Theatre and
Kenya Cultural Centre,
NPAS is a performing arts academy offering classes in drama(acting), script writing, production, dance and voice training from professional actors, choreographers and musical directors.
Based at the
Kenya National Theatre complex, It's the only professional Performing Arts School in Kenya offering those 5 disciplines under one roof.
Courses offered are taught by acclaimed professionals in the theatre, film and TV industries. Stuart Nash for example, founder & artistic Director at
NPAS is a
Sylvia Young Theatre School in London alumnus.
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Stuart Nash of NPAS[/caption]
He teaches production. Hellen Mtawali oversees voice training, Script writing is taught by Serah Mwihaki (Nairobi Half Life, Selina) & Acting is taught by Gathoni Nduta (This is Life, Sue & Johnnie). You know you'll be in good hands if you sign up with them.
NPAS also offer
Master Classes by celebrated actors, singers, directors and choreographers.
The
Ministry of Education is currently working with NPAS to develop a curriculum for national qualifications in performing arts. They'll soon be rolling out state endorsed certificate & diploma courses.
NPAS has been on an upward curve since its founding in 2016 and will be expanding its presence in the country by showcasing its first ever production outside Nairobi. Supported by the
Governor of Nakuru, Lee Kinyanjui,
Sarafina is coming to Nakuru this September! From the 19th-22nd. This will coincide with the opening of their second branch in the town so watch out for that.
Sarafina is making a come-back in Nairobi this October, and if you'd like to be part of the ensemble, you can audition to join NPAS this August 25th at the Kenya National Theatre. Remember to Bring your 'A Game'.
They have Three (3) intakes a year in: January, May & September. Rigorous but enjoyable one hour sessions every week over 3 semesters. The courses take one year to complete and cost Ksh 13,000-15,600 per term depending on the course with discounts for taking multiple courses.
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Class in Session[/caption]
During this time, you'll get to hone your skills under the guidance of seasoned, industry professionals and get to be part of the theatrical productions.
Nairobi Half Life and
The Lion King, slated for next year have theatre audiences in Nairobi anticipating with bated breath. And you can be part of the productions if you make that bold move and audition on the 25th.
If you've always wanted to break into theatre, look no further than NPAS . Your stepping stone to a glorious Performing Arts Career.
