Safaricom Hook has taken its search for Kenya’s next generation of performing talent to Kisumu, where regional auditions for the Hook Hip Hop Musical were held over the weekend at Mama Grace Social Hall.
The auditions, held on Saturday and Sunday, marked the third stop in the national talent search after previous auditions in Kakamega and Embu.
The initiative brought together dancers, musicians and actors aged 18 and above, giving young creatives an opportunity to showcase their talents and compete for a place in the musical.
The top five performers in Kisumu — Michael Jonnes, Victoria Ojiayo, Stephen Ochieng, Brian Oloo and Janet Amoke — were selected to advance to the national competition in Nairobi as Safaricom Hook continues its search for emerging talent from different parts of the country.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of Safaricom Hook Hip Hop Musical Audition and to have my talent recognised here in Kisumu. This experience has given me the confidence to keep pursuing my passion and I am excited to take what I have learnt to the next stage of the competition,” said Brian Oloo, dancer.
Beyond the auditions, the Kisumu stop also gave aspiring performers an opportunity to develop their skills through free practical workshops led by experienced practitioners in the performing arts.
The weekend sessions featured acting, music and directing workshops led by Gadwill Odhiambo, Hellen Mtawali and Stuart Nash.
The sessions are part of the initiative’s wider focus on helping young creatives strengthen their craft, build confidence and gain practical skills, making the platform about both talent discovery and development.
The regional approach is bringing together a wider range of voices, experiences and creative perspectives from different parts of Kenya.
By taking the auditions beyond Nairobi, Safaricom Hook and Nairobi Performing Arts Studio are creating space for emerging artists to be seen and considered for a musical that brings together singing, acting and dance.
The journey will also generate original stories and behind-the-scenes content, allowing audiences to follow the experience through Safaricom Hook’s social platforms and Baze.
“The regional talent search is helping uncover performers with strong potential while giving them valuable exposure and practical experience. “We have seen a lot of creativity and determination from the young performers in Kisumu. What stands out is not only the talent, but also the willingness to learn and grow. Platforms like this give artists an opportunity to develop their craft and gain the confidence to take their talent to the next level, said Gadwill Odhiambo, judge.
At the heart of the initiative is the message “Game Iko On”, a call for young people to move from the sidelines, pursue their passions and take an active role in shaping their future.
For the young creatives taking part in Kisumu, the auditions offer more than a chance to perform; they provide an opportunity to learn, connect with other artists and take the next step in their creative journey.
As the national search continues beyond Kisumu, Safaricom Hook is creating a platform to spotlight the talent, ambition and stories emerging from Kenya’s creative communities.
