Aspiring performers in Nakuru are getting an opportunity to showcase their talents and explore careers in the creative industry as the Safaricom Hook Hip Hop Musical auditions continue across the country.
For Bruce Kiarie, the auditions at Old Town Hall in Nakuru became an opportunity to discover an unexpected talent. Having initially turned up to showcase his dancing skills, Bruce found himself exploring his singing abilities after receiving guidance from renowned performing arts practitioner and judge Hellen Mtawali.
Bruce emerged among the standout performers at the auditions, which brought together aspiring singers, dancers and actors aged 18 and above hoping to secure a place in the Hook Hip Hop Musical.
His experience reflects the initiative’s broader goal of helping young creatives identify their strengths, develop new skills and gain confidence as they pursue opportunities in the performing arts.
“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. Emerging as one of the top performers is a big encouragement, and it has made me even more determined to keep working on my craft. 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,” said Bruce.
The Nakuru auditions are part of a nationwide talent search organised by Safaricom Hook in partnership with Nairobi Performing Arts Studio. The search has previously visited Kakamega, Embu and Kisumu as organisers seek to identify emerging talent beyond Nairobi.
In addition to auditions, the initiative features free practical workshops in acting, music and directing. The sessions are led by experienced coaches who help participants strengthen their performance skills and gain practical knowledge of the creative industry.
Hellen Mtawali said the auditions were assessing more than the ability to deliver a single performance, with judges also looking for versatility, potential and a 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. What is exciting about this platform is that it gives young creatives an opportunity to showcase what they can do while gaining practical skills that can help them grow. 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,” said Mtawali.
The Hook Hip Hop Musical combines singing, acting and dance in a production designed to celebrate the creativity and experiences of young people. Through the partnership with Nairobi Performing Arts Studio, the initiative aims to connect emerging performers with opportunities to participate in a major production while developing their artistic abilities.
The talent search will also feature 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.
The initiative is anchored on the message “Game Iko On,” encouraging young people to believe in their abilities, showcase their skills and pursue their ambitions.
For participants such as Bruce, the auditions offer more than a chance to secure a role in the musical. They also provide an opportunity to discover new abilities, receive professional guidance and connect with others working towards similar creative goals.
