TREASURES IN PERFORMING ARTS

By Osegere Marianita

The stories that made headlines on local and international media on the success of Lupita Nyong'o in the film industry confirms that art pays and should not be neglected at any cost.

Although in Kenya art has been discarded and not regarded as a subject taught in some public schools, to Mr. Fadhili Omasaba that is not a threat at all since he is an actor.

Fadhili Omasaba, who was born in Kakamega County and he is currently a student at Mount Kenya University Eldoret campus pursuing Bachelors in Education Literature, describes himself as a professional director and actor.

His ambition and passion of being an actor began long ago when he was a young boy. His motivation for drama is drawn from his teachers, the surrounding or locality and more so from his family members who like watching drama and offer him the much needed support.

“Although this field is full of challenges, through my dedication and hard work, I am optimistic that I will be able to conquer them all,” Mr. Omasaba said.

According to Mr. Omasaba, about eighty percent of the money in the country comes from art and the country is actually benefiting and getting prominence through it. He also advises fellow colleagues to come out and expose their talents instead of letting them go to waste.

“My fellow youth should come out and showcase their talents. They should have no fear that they lack support, if someone actually has passion and ability to do something, he or she will definitely find people who will be willing to support him or her,” Mr. Omasaba uttered.

He is the immediate former chairman of the drama club in Mount Kenya university Eldoret campus who are currently  practicing for a new play directed by Mr. Otieno and expected to be finalised in the course of the approaching month, then proceed to performing in this year's drama festivals.

Mr. Omasaba was crowned the best actor in 2009, and has several other awards. His ability to develop stage plays and thrilling scripts has seen him being hired as a trainer at the Eldoret Technical Training Institute in 2014.

Mr.Omasaba is also a talented singer since he is also a member of Eldoret's  “TACDEM”band which has been performing in town on weekends.

His skills and passion in stage directing has been paying him and due to this talent he has helped his parents for his school fees payment, despite his parents paying for him a percentage of the whole of it.

He wishes the government should consider offering music and art as subjects in both primary and secondary schools so as to impart knowledge and skills those talented in this field to exploit their talents.