A youth movement that speaks through art
Amazon Theatrix Ensemble (A.T.E) is a youth community based organisation in Kisumu, formed in November 2011 with one focus: developing and cultivating talent that serves the community.
Talent, with a purpose
We are registered with the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, and we treat the arts as a serious social tool for advocacy.
From the beginning, A.T.E embraced performance as a professional platform — a place where young people could earn a living while sensitising and empowering their communities through performing and visual arts. Along the way, members build self-esteem, sharpen their craft and find real socio-economic footing.
In Kisumu County, A.T.E stands out as the most professional youth theatre group, recognised across festivals and trusted by partners to carry messages that matter.
Vision & mission
Our vision
The arts and media are unique means to educate, build tolerance, raise awareness and foster holistic growth and social integration. Well-expressed creativity among youth shapes strong personalities who give back to society.
Our mission
To develop programmes that use the arts and media as the main tool for youth development — advancing education, creativity, climate action, peace, health, employability, women empowerment, governance and children's rights across Kisumu and western Kenya.
Milestones on and off the stage
A.T.E has lifted Kisumu County’s name on some of the country’s most respected arts platforms.
2011 — A.T.E is born
A group of young Kisumu artists found Amazon Theatrix Ensemble, anchored on talent development and cultivation as a route to community change.
2012 — National recognition
A.T.E lifts Kisumu County’s name at the G-pange Gate Festival and the Ministry of Culture & National Heritage art festival.
2013 — Peer educators festival
The ensemble shines at the Kisumu Peer Educators Festival, cementing its place as the county’s most professional youth theatre group.
Today — The A.T.E Faculty
Our faculty mentors schools and partners — taking Kisumu Boys’ High and Sawagongo Secondary to the nationals, and training Unbound Project staff in performing arts, photography and videography.
Values that hold the ensemble together
Inclusion
We welcome members regardless of tribe, colour, race, political affiliation or cultural identity. Art is the most democratic stage there is.
Professionalism
We produce authentic, well-crafted artistic pieces — the kind that win festivals and earn the trust of serious partners.
Youth at the centre
As a youth-led group, we have a special interest in building the capacity and self-esteem of fellow young people through the arts.
A company of 24 young artists
A.T.E believes in the art of democracy and all-inclusive participation. We draw members from the general public, with a special eye for artistic talent in Kisumu County.
A structure built to deliver
Clear roles keep our creativity accountable — from the managing committee down to every member on stage.
Managing committee
Sets direction and stewards the organisation, supported by a board of directors.
Director of programmes
Leads the design and delivery of our thematic advocacy programmes.
Finance & admin
Keeps the ensemble transparent, funded and running day to day.
Artistic directors (HODs)
Heads of department who shape the craft across every art form.
Office assistant / secretary
The coordination engine that keeps bookings, records and members in sync.
Members
24 trained artists who bring every production and outreach to life.
Voices from our community
The young people held up a mirror to our community. After the play, parents and youth were finally talking about things we never used to name.
A.T.E trained our staff in performing arts and the difference in how we reach communities is night and day. They are true professionals.
I joined as a shy teenager. Today I earn from my art and mentor others. This ensemble gave me my voice and my livelihood.
Want to work with a youth ensemble that delivers?
Let’s talk about your community, your message and how the arts can carry it further than a flyer ever could.