The theatrical showcase Index One, created under Shorts from Africa (a collective co-founded by Nyokabi Macharia and Nice Githinji), returns on 13 and 14 December at Braeburn Theatre, Gitanga Road. Titled Index One: Rebirth, the play will keep the same format, while also introducing fresh elements to a story that already captivated audiences when it first premiered in July.
“We have new music. And more compact material,” says Nyokabi who plays herself. “We noticed some gaps in the story and got a lot of feedback from our lovely audience on the same, so we’ve refined that.”
Stay ahead of Kenya & East Africa’s film and TV.
Get our stories in your inbox — Subscribe to our newsletter now.
Described as a testimony, a confession and a testament of human’s duality, Index One blends monologue, music, dance and performance to trace Nyokabi’s journey from the dusty playing fields of Nakuru to the cold streets of London, and finally back home in search of self and belonging.
According to Nyokabi, the story resonated widely across age groups and demographics, and the return offers a chance for even more people to experience this “timeless story that deserves to be seen by everyone who has ever doubted their worth.”
The Shorts from Africa team want the restaging to do more than simply resonate; they want to dazzle and are going all in and adding four new musical acts to the performance. When the show returns in two weeks, Sauti Sol’s Willis Austin Chimano, Watendawili’s Ywaya Tajiri, Vijana Barubaru’s Tuku Kantu and Ziya (Mike Muchiri) will join Nyokabi on stage, each playing her young love interest Jonte, as well as another pivotal character from her past.
“What truly sets Index One apart is its living, breathing soul,” says Githinji, the play’s director. “We’ve woven these four superstar musicians into the very fabric of the narrative, with each artist bringing their own unique fire and spirit to the same pivotal role across different performances. This means the show’s emotional core is constantly reinvented.”
This same spirit of spontaneity, Githinji says, ignites within the audience. As with the first staging, they will once again invite audience members to share their dreams. “Everyone dreams differently; a new and beautiful story is introduced into our world each night. For the cast, this means we are not just performing a story; we are discovering it anew, right alongside the audience, making every show a singular, shared experience.”
Although a performer for many years with Sauti Sol, Chimano has never been on stage in this way. For him, Index One feels deeply affirming, and offers a very different experience because “it values depth, intention and long-term growth, not just visibility.” “It’s not just about being included, but about being recognised for the fullness of who I am as an artist and a human being,” he says.
It’s a responsibility he does not take lightly, even as he acknowledges that the theatre stage demands honesty, bravery, and evolution, qualities that can be both thrilling and nerve-wracking. “What I’m most looking forward to is the exchange – the conversations, the collaborations, and the freedom to explore my work without having to dilute or explain myself,” Chimano says. “Index One feels like a beginning, not a moment, and that’s powerful.”
Like Chimano, Kantu has spent more time on stage as a musician than as an actor. “I did my first play back in campus, so Index One will be only my second time on stage in a theatrical production. That’s why this opportunity means so much to me,” he says.
He has always admired actors such as Denzel Washington and his philosophy that an actor should never leave the stage if they want to perfect the craft. “Being part of Index One feels like a step in that direction,” says Kantu. “I’m excited for the thrill, the challenge, and the lessons this experience will bring.”
Earlier in April, Mike Muchiri rebranded to Ziya to lean more into his artistic identity as he expands his horizons beyond being seen primarily as an influencer. In many ways, Index One feels like an extension of this evolution. “It’s been a while since I was on stage in a theatrical setting, and so much has changed in my artistry, my voice and my sense of self,” he says. “This experience is different because I’m not just performing; I’m sharing the evolution of my artistry.”
Even though he admits it’s a little scary to step into unfamiliar territory, Ziya sees Index One as a chance to stretch, rediscover, and honour his growth as an artist and storyteller, across the many forms his creativity takes.
Producer Denise Kibisu remains energised by the opportunity to hold the reins once more, and is especially proud of the show’s return and the promise of witnessing Nyokabi rise even higher on stage. “What makes Index One: Rebirth remarkable is the maturity and self-assurance Nyokabi brings to her own story,” she says. “This version doesn’t search for identity; it stands firmly in it. As producer, I see a work that honours her growth and mirrors the woman she is today.”
For Githinji, the heart of the comeback lies in shared recognition. “Index One: Rebirth shows us what happens when a person looks at their story not through survival, but in understanding,” she says.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
All reporting, interviews, and reviews on Sinema Focus are protected under international copyright law and the Kenya Copyright Act, 2001. No part of this publication may be reproduced, rewritten, republished, or redistributed in any form by media outlets without prior written consent. For reprint or syndication inquiries, contact editorial@sinemafocus.com.
©️ 2026 Sinema Focus / African Film Press. All rights reserved.
Never miss a moment.
Get the latest stories from Sinema Focus delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter now.
