Rwandan artists to stage three plays in the US

By The Inspirer.

A group of Rwandan film and theatre professionals is set to stage three plays in the United States, marking a step forward in efforts to promote Rwanda’s creative industry and strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.

The group includes Clapton Kibonge, an artist and actor who is also a student at Mashariki Arts Academy; Simon Iyarwema, a creative arts professional with experience in film, cultural programming, casting and event organisation; and Nahimana Clémence, popularly known as Feruje na Shenge, a film producer, director, actress and one of the writers of the radio drama Musekeweya.

Guitarist Shyaka A. Adolphe is also part of the team.

The visit aims to foster collaboration between theatre practitioners in Rwanda and the US, encourage knowledge exchange and introduce American audiences to stories rooted in Rwandan culture and experiences.

Announcing the performances, Kibonge said two of the plays had been developed by the Rwandan team, while the third would be produced in collaboration with American artists.

“We have three plays to perform. Two are ours, while the third is one we will work on with artists from the US,” he said.

The performances will be part of We Choose Tomorrow, a programme organised by Hattiloo Theatre. The initiative brings together Rwandan artists and Black American performers through three productions exploring resilience, courage, identity and the legacy people leave for future generations.

One of the plays, Umuganda: The Choice to Live, examines how division can destroy relationships and deprive communities of happiness. It also explores the possibility of reconciliation, rebuilding relationships and choosing a future defined by unity, strength and hope.

The play draws on umuganda, Rwanda’s tradition of community work, commonly associated with improving local infrastructure, protecting the environment and enhancing community well-being.

It uses the concept to explore the value of collective action and the possibility of rebuilding lives and restoring hope through shared effort.

Another production, Ndabaga, tells the story of a young woman who challenges beliefs that limit what women can achieve. It highlights how courage and determination can help people overcome barriers and accomplish what others consider impossible.

The Rwandan and American artists will also collaborate on What We Carry, a performance combining poetry, theatre and dance. It explores what people inherit from previous generations, what they choose to leave behind and the values they hope to pass on to those who follow.

The collaboration is intended not only to showcase Rwandan productions but also to bring together artists from both countries to create work shaped by their different experiences, cultures and storytelling traditions.

The performances are scheduled to run from October 22 to 25, 2026.