Brookhurst International School Breaks Ground on Major Arts Initiative with New 500-Seat Auditorium

Nairobi institution invests in creative education as students showcase transformative power of theater

Brookhurst International School is making a significant investment in arts education with the construction of a new 500-seat auditorium, signaling the Nairobi-based institution’s commitment to developing well-rounded students beyond traditional academics.

The state-of-the-art facility, designed with professional acoustics, modern lighting systems, and flexible staging capabilities, is expected to open in phases with partial use beginning by late 2026.

The auditorium will serve multiple purposes, hosting student performances, school concerts, inter-school cultural events, and community showcases.

Student Success Stories Drive Investment

The decision to build the auditorium comes on the heels of several successful theatrical productions that have drawn attention from across Nairobi’s educational community. The school’s recent staging of “Our Town” attracted representatives from more than ten schools, including Rusinga Schools, Woodcreek School, Nairobi Academy, and Oshwal Academy.

Davis Birungi, who played the lead role of George in “Our Town,” credits his theater experience with building unexpected confidence. “Being part of the play unlocked a level of confidence I never knew I had,” he said, reflecting a sentiment echoed by many students in the program.

The impact extends beyond the stage. Hope Wanjiku discovered her passion for technical theater while serving as stage manager for the production. Having recently completed her O-Levels, she now plans to pursue production opportunities professionally. “Working behind the scenes sparked a passion I didn’t even know I had,” Wanjiku explained.

Holistic Education Philosophy

School Principal George Mathenge frames the auditorium investment within Brookhurst’s broader educational philosophy. “This new space is both symbolic and practical. It represents a stage for healing, unity, and inspiration,” he said, emphasizing the school’s commitment to ensuring “every voice is heard and every learner is empowered.”

Drama lead Ms. Bredah highlighted the program’s role in developing essential life skills. “Our theatre program gives students a platform to develop not just performance skills, but empathy, leadership, teamwork, and confidence,” she noted.

Deputy Principal Ms. Cate reinforced the school’s balanced approach to education. “Our approach goes beyond academic performance. We believe in developing every aspect of the learner, from intellectual growth to character, leadership, and creativity.”

Academic Excellence Continues

The arts investment complements strong academic performance, with the Class of 2024 achieving impressive examination results. The school maintains its reputation for producing high-achieving graduates while expanding opportunities for creative expression.

Brookhurst’s co-curricular program already includes music, debate, robotics, sports, leadership clubs, and international trips. The new auditorium will anchor these offerings by providing a dedicated space for performance and presentation.

Regional Arts Hub

The facility positions Brookhurst as a potential cultural center within Nairobi’s educational landscape. The school’s track record of successful productions, including “Annie: The Musical” and “Our Town,” has already established its reputation for quality theater programming.

As construction progresses, the school continues its existing arts programming while preparing for expanded opportunities once the auditorium opens. The investment represents a notable commitment to arts education at a time when many institutions focus primarily on STEM and traditional academic subjects.

Brookhurst International School offers British curriculum education from Early Years through Sixth Form, serving students in a co-educational environment that emphasizes academic excellence alongside character development and creative expression.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​