By Lula Caesar
In this nation’s history, the year 2013 will forever be remembered for political reasons however, it will not be the only year with significance to many with 2014 setting its own mark in the entertainment sector.
After the 2013 conflict, evenings in Juba were very normal with three things certain; food, shrugging off bad thoughts and being hopeful. However, 2014 would change this narrative with the arrival of the Kilkilu Ana Comedy show like a twinkle in the sky for every Thursday in the heart of Juba, a social revolution unfolds, leading the adrenaline filled youth in only one direction, Lamark.
Lamark would on a good day would have 30 people in attendance for the comedy show which is a big contrast to present day when the show hosts over 1,000 people on a single Thursday, a testament of patience, resilience and growth for the show that started humbly on 3 May 2014, and has since grown into an unstoppable force.
When MC Lumoex and his team first envisioned Kilkilu Ana, the entertainment industry in South Sudan was barely breathing. Comedy was almost nonexistent, dancers had no professional stage to showcase their talents, and poetry was just an afterthought. Fast forward 11 years, Kilkilu Ana has singlehandedly birthed over 20 comedians, countless contemporary dance groups, and even redefined South Sudanese poetry and music.
The CEO Kilkilu Ana Isaac Anthony Lumori alias MC Lumoex points out what he actually feels is the biggest milestone of the show “Creating employment for youth. Today, artistes like John Frog, Single Dee, Crazy Fox, Yogoman, Neetah Baby, and Rebecca Trey are results of Kilkilu Ana”. Lumoex adds that beyond the artistes, many have also risen through the show.
“Before, South Sudanese artistes had to hire dancers from outside, but now groups like SSD Dancers, Rangers, Sunlight, and Heaven Stars exist because of us. We introduced Alabu dance and today, we have over 20 contemporary dance groups performing at weddings and birthdays. There were no poets, but now poetry is a recognized art. This platform is doing so much for the youth” he adds.
In its eleventh year, the anniversary will not just be another milestone but a statement. This year, the event steps up with a professional stage setup, honor comedians, poets, artistes, and dancers with accolades for their exceptional work. Unlike previous years, awards will be given on merit, pushing entertainers to refine their craft.
The management also feels they are just getting started with the building talents “We are looking at transforming Kilkilu Ana into a theater and possibly a school. Right now, we act as a training hub. Every Monday and Tuesday, we audition talents before the main Thursday display but we want to introduce vocational training so entertainers can have additional skills.”
The buddying CEO says music is not paying which has necessitated them to look for alternatives Music is not paying well in South Sudan, so we need other avenues.
“I, for example, am a network engineer beyond being an artist. We want Kilkilu Ana to not just entertain but empower” he concluded.
This Thursday definitely promises to signal the start of the next 11 years in a new direction.
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