Uganda’s Theatre Journey on display as UNCC opens historic Photo Exhibition

Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda National Cultural Centre (UNCC) has unveiled a two-week photo exhibition documenting the history of theatre in Uganda, now open to the public at the National Theatre in Kampala. The exhibition, which runs from August 2 to 16, 2025, is organised in partnership with History in Progress Uganda and aims to educate Ugandans—especially the youth—about the evolution of theatre through the decades.

The showcase features a rich collection of archival photographs capturing theatrical performances staged at the National Theatre and other prominent venues across Kampala. It was officially launched on Saturday by Dr. Andrea Stultiens, a director with History in Progress Uganda.

“I call upon everyone to come and be part of this exhibition,” said Dr. Stultiens during the launch. “We have taken time to organize these photos because we would like Ugandans to know more about the history of theatre by displaying photos of the different theatrical productions that happened way back.”

UNCC’s Head of Marketing and Public Relations, Musiitwa Robert, said the exhibition is part of a broader effort to document and celebrate Uganda’s performing arts heritage.

“This exhibition offers a glimpse into the long journey of theatre in Uganda and how it has evolved over time,” Musiitwa noted. “We encourage the public, especially students and the youth, to come and see how theatre looked before and after independence.”

Arts professor and veteran artist Nuwa Wamala Nyanzi, also in attendance, advised the current generation of playwrights and theatre producers to adopt digital archiving.

“Our theatre today should be recorded in video form, enabling audiences beyond our borders to engage with it through digital platforms,” Prof. Nyanzi said.

The exhibition is free to the public and open daily at the Uganda National Theatre.