From Two Rooms to Many: NTN’s Expanding Creative Home

by Alma Ulamba, General Manager, National Theatre of Namibia

As a small-town girl, I didn’t grow up knowing the National Theatre of Namibia (NTN). I only became aware of it when I started working here. But I still remember those first productions I experienced: God of Women by Prof. Sifiso Nyathi at the Warehouse Theatre, and Lammie Beukes by Severius Majiedt right here at NTN.

Around that same time, I was stepping into my new role as Production Manager, just as my predecessor Nicola was leaving. I had three whirlwind days to learn the ropes — all while helping to bring Oliver Mtukudzi to perform at Zoo Park. It was a mouthful, but I survived.

And I remember thinking, This place matters.

Now, as General Manager, I see that same spark every day — and I see how much room we have to grow.

Like so many arts institutions around the world, we’ve faced tough seasons. The COVID-19 pandemic challenged our industry in ways we never imagined. But it also forced us to pause, reflect, and ask ourselves: Who are we now? and Who do we want to become?

What’s emerging from that reflection is something really exciting.

NTN is evolving — not just in size, but in spirit. We’re no longer just a performance stage. We’re growing into a true creative home: a hub for storytelling, training, innovation, and community connection. A house with many rooms, open to all.

So, what does that actually mean?

It means we’re embracing more voices, more genres, and more stories that reflect the full range of Namibian life.

It means reviving programmes that are part of our cultural DNA, like The Last Band Standing and the Artbeat Holiday Programme. Last Band Standing brought together Namibia’s best live music bands in an electrifying battle for top honours and a cash prize — celebrating musical excellence and uniting audiences through pure performance power. Meanwhile, Artbeat ignited the imagination of young creatives through workshops and showcases that nurture future artists.

Together, these projects reflect the wide reach of our creative ecosystem — from seasoned performers to rising stars.

It means our upcoming season, curated by our Artistic Director, will feature a blend of bold new stories, reimagined classics, and powerful collaborations that push boundaries and uplift unheard voices.

It also means doubling down on our core values:

Diversity.

Innovation.

Integrity.

Sustainability.

Cooperation.

Excellence.

These aren’t just words — they’re the foundation we build on every day.

We’re on a journey. And we want you with us.

Whether you’re a long-time friend of the theatre or just getting to know us, this is your invitation to step inside, attend a show, audition, and share your stories.

Bring your voice into the room. We are actively building an inclusive creative space, and there’s room for you in it.

This isn’t just a new chapter for NTN. It’s a transformation — one that honours where we’ve been, celebrates where we are, and boldly steps into where we’re going.

Let’s build this creative home together.

Check out our website (www.ntn.org.na) or follow our social media for auditions, workshops, and upcoming shows — or better yet, book a free tour of the theatre and visit us. We’d love to meet you.

Yours in the Arts,

Alma Ulamba
General Manager, National Theatre of Namibia