Wangu wa Makeri: New play about legendary Gikuyu leader coming to theatre this May

The play, which will begin at 7 PM daily during its run, is a Kwa Ndego production directed by Lawrence Murage.

It will offer a dramatic retelling of Wangu wa Makeri’s life and leadership serving as the only female headman for the Kikuyu during the British colonial era.

According to the National Museum of Kenya, Wangu wa Makeri served as a chieftess, also known as headman, under British rule and also a rare and powerful position for a woman in pre-colonial Kikuyu society.

Audiences will be transported to a pivotal era in Kenya’s past, witnessing the trials and triumphs of a woman who defied societal norms to become a leader in a world dominated by men.

Wangu wa Makeri’s name echoes through the Kikuyu history, a testament to her extraordinary life and legacy. Born in the mid-19th century in Murang’a, she rose to become the first and only female muthamaki (chieftain) in Kikuyu tradition, a position traditionally reserved for men.

Her ascent to power was as unconventional as her reign. The British colonial authorities initially offered the chieftainship to her husband, Makeri wa Mbogo. However, he declined, and in a move that shocked many, Wangu accepted the mantle of leadership.

Her tenure was marked by both admiration and controversy. As muthamaki, she navigated the complex political landscape of colonial Kenya, tasked with collecting taxes for the British administration.

This role often placed her at odds with her people, who resented the imposition of colonial rule. Yet, she proved to be a capable leader, earning a reputation for her strength and resolve.

However, Wangu’s association with the British and her unconventional personal life, including her relationship with the influential Paramount Chief Karuri wa Gakure, fueled criticism and ultimately contributed to her downfall.

Despite the challenges, her story remains a powerful testament to female leadership and the struggle for agency in a patriarchal society.

The upcoming musical play, a collaborative effort of seasoned playwrights, composers, and actors, promises to bring Wangu wa Makeri’s story to life with vibrant music, compelling drama, and evocative visuals. The production aims to delve into the historical context of her era, exploring the socio-political dynamics of colonial Kenya and the impact of British rule on the Kikuyu people.

The musical format offers a unique opportunity to explore the emotional depth of Wangu’s story. Through song and dance, the audience will be immersed in the cultural richness of the Kikuyu traditions, experiencing the joy, sorrow, and resilience of a community grappling with change.

The stage will become a canvas, painting a vivid picture of Wangu’s world – the rolling hills of Murang’a, the bustling markets, and the council meetings where decisions were made that shaped the destiny of the Kikuyu people. The costumes, meticulously designed to reflect the period, will add another layer of authenticity to the production.

The Kenya National Theatre, a cultural landmark in Nairobi, provides the perfect setting for this momentous event; The main auditorium, with its rich history and state-of-the-art facilities, will create an immersive experience for the audience, drawing them into the heart of Wangu wa Makeri’s story.

Ambient music from live drummers and Gikuyu music instruments will set the tone as they step into the world of Wangu wa Makeri as the foyer will be transformed into a storytelling corridor—a photobooth zone inspired by key moments from Wangu's life, with backdrops styled like colonial courts, traditional Kikuyu homes, and rebellion scenes. 

Additionally, guests will also get to witness the "Wall of Heroines" installation showcasing unsung Kikuyu women who shaped history.