Kakalabanda returns to the stage as dance meets Uganda’s boarding school folklore

What the report says

Batalo East and Wakiso Dance Kids are preparing a new dance-theatre production, Kakalabanda, that draws on a familiar boarding school legend from central Uganda. The one-hour show is set to premiere at the National Theatre in Kampala on September 9, 2026, before moving to Kavumba Recreation Centre in Wakiso on September 12. Both performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m., with tickets priced at Shs30,000.

Sqoop Uganda reports that the production is inspired by the old Kakalabanda, also known as Nkalabanda, a figure remembered in school folklore as a frightening presence said to move through dormitories at night. Rather than presenting the story as simple horror, the creative team says the piece uses it to explore changing school culture and the experiences of young people today. The show combines traditional dance, urban movement and theatre under the theme, “A celebration of our culture, our stories, our future.”

Albert Mubiru, the production director at Batalo East, said the collaboration is also meant to help pass traditional art to younger generations, while Davis Elisha Ssebulime said the original stories carried lessons about discipline and behaviour. Choreographer Elvis “Levy” Elaso said the staging will also touch on current issues affecting learners, including emotional distress, and move between humour, fear and sadness. The project reflects a broader effort in Uganda’s performing arts scene to connect folklore, youth performance and social commentary.