1. ABOUT THE PLAY
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Uhuru Peak in Tanzania, Uhuru follows an unlikely group of travelers as they embark on a “Tanzanian-only” climb to the mountain’s summit. Along the way, a tour guide, a Tanzanian-American visitor, and two missionaries must confront questions of identity, belonging, culture, and who has the right to claim a place as their own. As tensions rise and perspectives collide, who will come out on top?
This sharp and heartfelt play blends humor with social commentary, inviting audiences to reflect on community, privilege, and the search for home. Through its vivid characters and contemporary themes, Uhuru offers a moving and timely look at what it means to belong in an increasingly interconnected world.
Uhuru is a world-premiere production, meaning audiences like you! are among the first to experience this story on stage.
2. MEET THE AUTHOR
Gloria Majule is a storyteller from Dodoma, Tanzania. She seeks to tell stories that bring multiple black voices together from across the world, and are accessible to black audiences no matter where they are. She writes for and about Africans and the African diaspora.
Despite being early in her career, Gloria has achieved remarkable success, earning fellowships from MacDowell and Artist Trust, commissions from leading organizations including Audible, Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Atlantic Theater Company, and Princeton University/The Civilians.
She also has had residencies at prestigious institutions such as Yaddo, Art Omi, Berkeley Repertory Theatre, The New Harmony Project, and New York Stage and Film.
Her journey is a testament to how talent, passion, and dedication can open doors and inspire audiences around the world.
3. WHEN AND WHERE
TIME: PRESENT DAY
The play takes place in today's world, where cultures, ideas, and traditions connect across the globe. As people meet and learn from others with different backgrounds, many also think about their own identity, heritage, and sense of belonging.
SETTING: TANZANIA
The play takes place in Tanzania, an East African country famous for its diverse cultures and incredible natural scenery.
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Mount Kilimanjaro: The setting is on the slopes of Africa's highest mountain, which rises nearly 20,000 feet above the surrounding landscape.
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East African Environment: The area around Kilimanjaro includes forests, grasslands, and unique wildlife, making it one of the most recognizable places in Africa.
4. GOOD TO KNOW
CLIMBING MOUNT KILIMANJARO
Before beginning their journey in Uhuru, it is helpful to understand the challenges of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Reaching the summit takes determination, preparation, and the ability to overcome difficult conditions.
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The climb to the summit usually takes 5 to 9 days, depending on the route.
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Hikers sleep in tents or mountain huts along the trail as they travel up the mountain.
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Most experts recommend spending 7 to 9 days on the climb to allow time to adjust to the altitude.
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The higher you climb, the thinner the air becomes, which can make hiking more difficult.
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Taking extra time helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
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Slower climbs give hikers a better chance of reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro.
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Porters are people that carry supplies supports the expedition, and are often underpaid and under valued. while their contributions are what make the climb possible.
THE MACHAME ROUTE
In the play, the characters travel on The Machame Route. The Machame Route is one of the most popular ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa. Located in Tanzania, this route takes climbers through several different environments, including lush rainforests, rocky moorlands, and dry alpine deserts. The journey usually takes six to seven days, giving hikers time to adjust to the high altitude before reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak. Known for its stunning views and challenging trails, the Machame Route attracts thousands of climbers each year from around the world.
5. OUR DESIGN
At Alley Theatre we have access to some of the best and most talented theatrical designers in the industry. We also have some of the most state of the art theatre spaces in the country. This gives us the unique opportunity to have a lot of creative mobility when it comes to how we present our shows. This production is also a world premiere, meaning a majority of these design elements had to be made completely from scratch from conception to creation. Take a look at the original designs for the world premiere of Uhuru. What stands out to you regarding our design of the show?
SET DESIGN FOR ALLEY THEATRE'S 2026 PRODUCTION BY YOU-SHIN CHEN
6. WHO'S WHO
Read the descriptions below and click on each photo for the actor’s bio.
Mshale
Mshale is a seasoned Mount Kilimanjaro tour guide who leads the expedition to Uhuru Peak. He has dreams of independence and getting out of Tanzania. He sees opportunity to do so on the climb.
Key Traits:
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Practical
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Confident
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Responsible
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Strong
Michael Oloyede
Sprite
Sprite is a Tanzanian-American traveler who joins the climb to reconnect with his heritage and better understand his place within Tanzanian culture.
Key Traits:
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Curious
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Idealistic
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Determined
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Reflective
Oghenero Gbaje
Henry
Henry is one of the missionaries on the expedition. Having spent significant time in Tanzania, he believes he has a strong connection to the country, though his views are challenged throughout the journey.
Key Traits:
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Dedicated
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Confident
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Well-meaning
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Stubborn
David Gow
Frannie
Frannie is Henry’s wife and fellow missionary. She approaches the expedition with optimism and sincerity but must also confront difficult questions about identity, culture, and belonging.
Key Traits:
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Compassionate
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Optimistic
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Thoughtful
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Open-minded
Skyler Sinclair
7. YOUR PART IN THE PLAY
The show can't happen without an audience. Watch the video for some great advice on playing your part.
BONUS ACTIVITY
AUDIENCE ETIQUETTE
After watching the video, improvise scenes where you encounter the best and worst audience members. If you create something fun and want to share it, tag us at @alleytheatre on Instagram or Facebook for a chance to be featured on our social platforms.
8. POST-SHOW TALKBACK
If you and your students plan to participate in the post-show talkback, encourage them to ask questions!