Philip Luswata’s Kawaidha Nzuri takes on Uganda's dying theatre culture
The production, a collaboration with Kyengera-based Wava Theatre, premiered last week during World Theatre Day celebrations at Uganda’s National Theatre in Kampala.
Luswata acting with Wava Theatre actresses in Kawaidha Nzuri play.Photo by Alfred Byenkya
Alfred Byenkya
Journalist @New Vision
Renowned actor, director, and drama lecturer Philip Luswata is set to present his latest play, Kawaidha Nzuri, at the 2025 Ubumuntu Arts Festival in Kigali, Rwanda (July 14–20).
The production, a collaboration with Kyengera-based Wava Theatre, premiered last week during World Theatre Day celebrations at Uganda’s National Theatre in Kampala.
The 30-minute play is a bold critique of theatre’s current state, questioning its future relevance. Luswata, who plays the lead role, highlights challenges stifling Uganda’s theatre scene—limited performance spaces, costly permits, bureaucratic hurdles, and unsustainable production expenses.
Phillip Luswata acting in Kawaidha Nzuri Play at National Theatre.Photo by Alfred Byenkya
“Theatre has become too expensive to produce,” he emphasized, revealing his growing disillusionment. “Bad leadership, outdated policies, and poor management are killing the industry.”
The play also reflects his personal struggles. “My family asks when I’ll retire—theatre keeps me away, yet there’s little reward,” he shared. “This story mirrors my grief over Uganda’s dying theatre culture.”