Kenya National Theatre is the premier best known Space and Platform at The Kenya Cultural Centre. Built in late 1940s and opened in March 1951, KNT aka “The Shrine” as it is fondly known, is the largest proscenium theatre space in Kenya.

KNT boasts multiple spaces for diverse creative processes and performance presentations covering Drama, Live Musical Concerts, Physical Theatre, Images Projection, Dance and Movement.

In-built excellent facilities comprise a 345-seater modern auditorium (Stalls 278; Balcony 67 seats), a 9 by 10 meters’ proscenium performance Stage, 4 fully equipped performers’ backstage Changing Rooms with a Wardrobe Room, a Modern Kitted Dance Studio, 3 Rehearsal Spaces, 2 Seminar/Discussion Rooms, Double Freshen-Up Shower Rooms and 2 Kitchenettes.

A redesigned Bar and Restaurant facilities inclusive of 2 Extended Side Balconies covers the first floor landing next to the upstairs VIP auditorium sitting enclave. “The Shrine” is further fitted with modern Lighting and Sound equipment capable of meeting creative expectations of diverse technical design imperatives for various genres of live Stage presentations.

A direct main supply line grid Electric Power Transformer; a 400KVA Automatic Standby Power Generator; a 49, 000 litres Water Tank and a detached Public Washroom Block have all been fitted to provide the theatre with reliable support amenities.

The Kenya Cultural Centre incorporating Kenya National Theatre) is the country’s oldest expressive cultural institution established in 1951 through Cap 218 Laws of Kenya.

The Centre is the national centre for cultural engagement, discourse, performance and research. It incorporates dynamic and aesthetic public spaces for harmonious connections, and is an institution which embraces and encourages .

The Centre operates as a Semi-Autonomous Government Agency (SAGA) under the Ministry of Sports, Culture and the Arts

Perfect place for outdoor and indoor exhibitions

September 13, 2022 2:49 am

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5^{/ 5}

Kenya Cultural Centre incorporating Kenya National was established by the Kenya Cultural Centre and was mandated to provide a Centre for the use and enjoyment of the citizens of Kenya and provide for the performance of music, drama, and dancing, for the exhibition of works of art and craft and the holding of meetings for discussion of matters of literary, historical, scientific or educational interest or importance, and connected purposes as may be approved by the Governing Council. KCC-NT is the nation’s oldest state cultural institution and is currently administered under the Ministry of Sports, Culture, and Heritage. I have been here several times to launch our photographic exhibition and for auditions. One of the greatest gifts for us as photographers was to partner with Kenya Cultural Centre, they gave us a hall and outdoor space for one month to exhibit. Our photo exhibition name Hakuna Matata was unveiled by Hon. Esther Pasaris.Subtitled A Kenyan Safari, the exhibition featured work by 13 Kenyan photographers including me. The show was organized by our very own Photography Association of Kenya (PAK). A great success it was thanks to the Kenya Cultural Centre management.

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Sarafina was a blast.

June 10, 2021 10:04 am

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4^{/ 5}

If you’re a fan of theatre, then this spot in Nairobi is a must-visit. If you’re in Nairobi CBD, the building is within walking distance from Odeon. There is always something running throughout the weekend making it a perfect place you spend either by yourself, with your partner, or with family. I was there a while back to watch the performance of Sarafina. We had to buy the tickets in advance plus they ended up being sold out before the showing day. We got there early, with my brother, because we knew the place would be packed. The whole space is amazing. The lawn is beautiful and the architecture of the building is amazing. I hadn’t been a touch on an event before but after that one, I promise you that it won’t be the last. I would recommend visiting this place.