Former news anchor Ken Wakuraya is making headlines once again, this time not behind the news desk but on stage, as he takes on a lead role in the upcoming Gikuyu musical production Waiyaki Wa Hinga.
After 12 years away from theatre, Wakuraya’s return is being viewed as a bold career reinvention, shifting from broadcast journalism into live performance at a time when Kenya’s creative industry is increasingly rewarding versatility and cross-industry talent.
The production, directed by Lawrence Murage, will run on 8th, 9th and 10th, bringing together a large ensemble cast and a storyline centred on the legendary Waiyaki Wa Hinga.
Industry watchers say Wakuraya’s move reflects a growing trend where established media personalities are expanding into theatre, film and digital storytelling, driven by both creative passion and the evolving nature of Kenya’s entertainment economy.
His return has also reignited conversations about the value of theatre as a platform for storytelling that demands presence, emotion and direct audience connection—elements often missing in broadcast media.
The play features a strong cast including Dival Gathoni, Njeri wa Kamau, Shish Madivani, Mzee Lawrence, FlowFlaani, Pablo Kimani, Wairimu wa Mwangi, Andrew Ng’ang’a, Matere James, Nyce Njeri and Thuita Mwangi, reinforcing its position as a major vernacular production.
Wakuraya’s transition is now being seen not just as a comeback, but as a reinvention—one that highlights how Kenya’s entertainment industry continues to blur the lines between journalism, performance and cultural storytelling.
