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In the heart of Kenya’s high school drama season, few performances have stirred as much national attention as "Echoes of War", a daring and thought-provoking play by Butere Girls High School. Written by former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, this powerful stage production has become the centerpiece of discussions around censorship, youth empowerment, and the role of art in society.
Set in the fictional Middle Eastern kingdom of Royal Velvet Emirates, Echoes of War explores a society on the brink of collapse. The play paints a vivid picture of a nation grappling with the clash between religious authority, emerging artificial intelligence, and an increasingly vocal and rebellious youth. Through poetic monologues, hyperbole, and rich allegory, the script invites audiences to reflect on real-world political and social tensions.
While the story is fictional, the themes are universal and unapologetically bold — challenging systems of power, questioning blind obedience, and highlighting the tensions between tradition and innovation.
Despite its artistic brilliance, Echoes of War faced a dramatic obstacle — it was initially banned by the Ministry of Education from participating in the 2025 Kenya National Drama Festival. Officials cited concerns that the play was politically sensitive and critical of government structures.
Butere Girls, with the backing of legal experts and education stakeholders, filed a case against the ban. The High Court ruled in their favor, lifting the restriction on April 3, 2025, and allowing them to compete at the national level held at Lions Academy, Nakuru County.
On April 10, 2025, the Butere Girls drama team made a bold move: they refused to perform the play in protest of the arrest of their playwright, Cleophas Malala. The silent walkout was not just about the play — it was a stand against what they saw as intimidation and suppression of artistic freedom.
Malala later claimed that approximately 15 students were unaccounted for following the walkout, sparking concern and raising questions about the safety and well-being of the students involved.
Butere Girls High School is no stranger to using drama as a tool for social commentary. In 2013, their play "Shackles of Doom", also written by Malala, was banned for allegedly inciting ethnic disharmony. Over the years, the school has maintained its reputation for producing courageous, award-winning drama pieces that speak truth to power.
Script- Echoes of War, Butere Girls High School
"Echoes of War" is more than just a school play — it's a cultural moment. It reminds us of the power of young voices, the importance of free expression, and the role of art in holding up a mirror to society. Whether or not the play took home a trophy, it certainly made an impact that will echo far beyond the stage.
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