Singer Eric Wainaina’s Musical ‘Mo Faya!’ Returns to Stage

Eric Wainaina’s Acclaimed Musical ‘Mo Faya!’ Set for Triumphant Return to the Stage
The beloved Kenyan musical ‘Mo Faya!’, created and composed by legendary singer-songwriter Eric Wainaina, is set for a highly anticipated return to the stage for a limited run of performances. The production, which first captivated audiences over a decade ago, will be revived with a refreshed script, new musical numbers, and a mix of original and new cast members. The announcement has been met with excitement from theatre enthusiasts who regard the musical as a landmark of contemporary Kenyan storytelling.
‘Mo Faya!’ is a vibrant and socially conscious production that uses music, drama, and satire to explore themes of identity, social justice, and the complexities of modern Kenyan life through the lens of a matatu (public transport van) and its crew. The musical was groundbreaking for its use of Sheng, English, and Swahili, and for its original soundtrack that blended genge, hip-hop, and soul, making it instantly relatable to a local audience. Its return promises to introduce a new generation to its powerful narrative while offering nostalgia for those who saw its original run.
This story about the soul of our city is as relevant today as it was when we first staged it. The ‘Mo Faya’ spirit—that grit, humor, and resilience—is what defines Nairobi. We’re thrilled to bring this energy back to the theatre, stated Eric Wainaina. The production is expected to be a major event on the capital’s cultural calendar, with high demand for tickets anticipated.
The revival of ‘Mo Faya!’ represents a significant boost for Kenya’s live theatre scene, which has been working to recover its momentum post-pandemic. A successful run would demonstrate a robust market for high-quality, locally produced musical theatre and could inspire the revival of other classic Kenyan productions. For Eric Wainaina, it reaffirms his status as a pivotal figure in the nation’s performing arts, seamlessly bridging the worlds of popular music and theatrical excellence. The return of this iconic work is not just a show, but a celebration of a uniquely Nairobian story.