Eldoret's 'Paradise of Thorns' play stuns with powerful tale of fatherhood, single parenting

Artflame Theatre Network’s Paradise of Thorns electrified a sold-out KVDA auditorium in Eldoret, delivering a poignant exploration of fatherhood absenteeism, single parenting, and emotional trauma.

Written and produced by Eldoret’s own Brian Mwanzo and directed by Nairobi’s Ben Tekee, the play weaves a gripping narrative that resonates deeply with its audience.

The story follows Makena (Bridget Makena), a single mother abandoned by French (Frankline Ng’etich) during her pregnancy. Raising their son, Master Tyler (Maina Anthony), Makena grapples with societal judgment, work-life pressures, and the emotional toll of abandonment.

Twelve years later, an unexpected reunion with French sparks tension as he seeks to connect with Tyler, stirring conflict and a harrowing fear when Makena believes her son has been kidnapped.

This crisis, coupled with job loss, forces a raw reckoning that binds them. Originally centered on the struggles of single mothers, Mwanzo’s script evolved to spotlight the critical role of a father in a boy’s life, adding depth to its emotional core.

Tekee, who collaborated virtually with the cast, praised their fresh perspectives, noting, “Guiding them line by line was refreshing. Their raw connection to the delicate themes elevated the performance.”

The production marks a milestone in inter-county creative partnerships, with Tekee advocating for more collaboration to grow Kenya’s theatre scene.

“Eldoret’s theatre is thriving,” he said, citing influences like Dr. Fred Mbogo of 64 Theatre and visits from thespians Robert Agengo and Wakio Mzenge.

“Artists must unite to build audiences and make theatre a cultural staple.”Mwanzo echoed this, crediting Artflame’s decade-long consistency for Eldoret’s growing theatre audience.

“We’ve built a loyal following, making Eldoret a must-stop for touring productions,” he said. Both urged artists to cross-promote shows to draw new demographics, with Tekee adding, “One person can inspire another to make theatre a way of life.”

Paradise of Thorns not only showcased Eldoret’s rising theatre prowess but also sparked a call for unity to transform Kenya’s stage culture, proving passion can fill auditoriums and hearts alike.