Nyanzi calls for documentation of theatrical works
Nyanzi said the lack of documentation through photos and videos is one of the reasons why the industry is suffering from low publicity, as many people do not know what actually happens in the theatre.
Students looking at some of the displayed photos about the history of theatre in Uganda. (Photos by Alfred Byenkya)
By Alfred Byenkya
Journalists @New Vision
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Ugandan renowned artist Nuwa Wamala Nyanzi has said that 95% of Uganda’s theatrical productions are not documented.
He said the lack of documentation through photos and videos is one of the reasons why the industry is suffering from low publicity, as many people do not know what actually happens in the theatre.
“I remember there’s a famous play that we staged about the Ugandan army. This was the time when Gen. Mugisha Muntu (now retired) was the army commander. When we told him about it, he invited over 400 soldiers to come and watch the show but we didn’t take pictures or record any videos for future reference. It hurts now,” he said.
Dr. Andrea Stultiens, of the History in Progress Uganda project, urged all those who have photos of the theatre to bring them for the exhibition.
He made the remarks while officiating at the launch of a two-week photo exhibition about the history of theatre in Uganda that started last Saturday and closes on August 16, 2025, at the National Theatre in Kampala.
“He challenged theatre practitioners to take advantage of the different digital spaces and record their productions for the young generations to see because that’s how they will get connected to theatre.
Dr. Andrea Stultiens, of the History in Progress Uganda project, said they organised this event in partnership with the UNCC (Uganda National Cultural Centre) to enable Ugandans to come and see photos about the history of Uganda’s theatre, from colonial times to date.
She urged all those who have photos of the theatre to bring them for the exhibition.
Kiyimba Musisi, the chairperson of the Theatre Legends Association Uganda, said there is a need for more research in theatre.
“We need research that can enable us to get an answer on how audiences can be brought back to the theatre to watch plays because that is the biggest challenge affecting the monetisation of plays,” he said.