Adam Chienjo Receives Jury’s Special Award at 2026 Kenya Theatre Awards

On 26 February 2026, at the 5th Kenya Theatre Awards held at the Kenya National Theatre, Upstage Executive Director Adam Chienjo was honoured with the World Impact Award - a Jury’s Special Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Kenyan professional dance scene and the broader performing arts industry.

The Kenya Theatre Awards celebrate excellence across the country’s theatre and performance landscape, recognising outstanding work in categories ranging from acting, production, and direction to choreography, sound, and set design.

The Jury’s Special Awards are presented at the discretion of the awards panel to honour individuals whose work has had a significant and lasting impact on the cultural sector. Adam’s leadership of the Dance Life Festival, and his sustained contribution to professional dance in Kenya and across East Africa were highlighted as key factors in the decision to recognise his work.

The award places Adam among a distinguished group of cultural practitioners who have made significant contributions to theatre and the performing arts in Kenya, affirming his role as a leader within the region’s arts ecosystem.