Kenya National Theatre is part of the Kenya Cultural Centre,[1] a Semi Autonomous Government Agency under the Ministry of State for National Heritage and Culture in Kenya. It is mandated to offer space for the rehearsal and staging of productions to both local and international repertoire.[2] It is based in Nairobi along Harry Thuku Road and borders the University of Nairobi (UON), The Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) and The Fairmont Norfolk Hotel.
The history of the building has viewed its location as a hurdle for an earnest identification with the local artistic performances. The cost of maintenance has meant higher booking fees for fledgling repertoires, eventually reserving itself for a corporate clientele. [citation needed] The Kenya National Theatre has also been a subject of scholarly criticism and a basis for formulating a cultural policy.
In 2004, Kenya Cultural Centre Ltd contracted Millicon's Ltd to undertake a three phase renovation of the facility. [citation needed] In October 2007, Kenya National Theatre was handed over and renamed "National Theatre" with a notable interior design of the first floor's "Wasanii Restaurant" by Terry Tabor.
The Kenya National Theatre ( KNT), Kenya Conservatoire of Music , Mugumo Courtyard, The Kona ya Wasanii, Cheche Gallery and Ukumbi Mdogo are currently a component of the Kenya Cultural Center spaces and platforms.[3]