Aspiring performers, artists are getting an opportunity to develop their skills and pursue careers in the creative industry through the Safaricom Hook Hip Hop Musical, which is taking its nationwide talent search beyond Nairobi.
The auditions, held yesterday at the Old Town Hall in Nakuru, brought together singers, dancers and actors aged 18 and above seeking a place in the musical, with some participants discovering new abilities through coaching by experienced performing arts practitioners.
Among the standout performers was Bruce Kiarie, who attended the auditions intending to showcase his dancing skills but discovered that he could also sing after guidance from judge Hellen Mtawali.
“Being part of these auditions has been an incredible experience. I came here ready to showcase what I can do, but I have also learnt so much from the process and the people around me,” Bruce said.
He said emerging as one of the top performers had encouraged him to work harder and pursue opportunities in the performing arts.
“I also thank the judges for believing in me and helping me explore singing, something I did not think I could do well. I hope this is the beginning of bigger opportunities for me in the performing arts,” he said.
The Nakuru auditions mark another stage in the nationwide talent search by Safaricom Hook in partnership with Nairobi Performing Arts Studio, following earlier auditions in Kakamega, Embu and Kisumu.
The initiative combines singing, acting and dance in a production designed to celebrate young people’s creativity while opening opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their abilities and gain practical industry experience.
Beyond selecting performers for the musical, the programme offers free workshops in acting, music and directing, led by experienced coaches to help participants sharpen their skills and build confidence.
Mtawali said the auditions were assessing not only participants’ immediate performance abilities but also their versatility, potential and willingness to learn.
“Every region brings a different energy and perspective, and Nakuru has been no exception. As judges, we are looking beyond individual performances to identify potential, versatility and a willingness to learn,” she said.
Mtawali said the platform was intended to help young creatives develop their craft and recognise opportunities within the creative economy.
“The goal is not just to discover talent for the musical, but also to encourage performers to keep developing their craft and see a future for themselves in the creative industry,” she said.
The talent search also features original stories and behind-the-scenes content, allowing audiences to follow the auditions and participants’ experiences through Safaricom Hook’s social media platforms and Baze.
Under the campaign message “Game Iko On”, the initiative encourages young people to believe in their abilities, take up opportunities and explore their creative ambitions.
As auditions continue in other parts of the country, the partnership seeks to identify emerging performers while giving them access to coaching, exposure and a platform to connect with audiences.
