Rwandan actor, comedian and playwright Diogène Ntarindwa, better known as Atome, returned to stage at his home country on Saturday, November 7, with his one-man show, Carte d’Identité, which brought together theater, personal stories and conversations about history and the role of young people.
The performance, held at Kigali Convention Centre, was attended by First Lady Jeannette Kagame who was guest of honor. Other guests included Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement Jean Damascene Bizimana, Minister of Education Joseph Nsengimana and musician Khadja Nin among others.
Welcoming the audience, Atome said the show was also a way of honouring those who fought for the country during the liberation struggle.
"This play is also dedicated to honour the young people who fought for our country. They were young but brave," he said.
The evening began with the Legacy Series soundtrack, telling the story of the young people who took part in the liberation of the country, the difficulties they faced and their determination to fight for their country.
It also paid tribute to those who spent time and made sacrifices to earn the country’s liberation.
"They had to be sober. They were sober in loving the country and not hesitating in making the decisions necessary for saving the country," the performance highlighted.
Through Carte d’Identité, Ntarindwa shared parts of his personal journey, including growing up in exile in Burundi, his life in Belgium and France, his return home and his search for identity and belonging.
The show also explored the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and the journey of reconciliation.
It concluded with Legacy Talks, a panel discussion on the role of young people in preserving what previous generations fought for and continuing the work of building the country.
The discussion also looked at what the younger generation needs to do to protect that legacy and contribute to the country's future.
"As the youth now, we are not responsible for what happened then, but what is happening now is our responsibility," said Israel Mupenzi Nuru, the Executive Director of Peace and Leadership Proclaimers (PLP).
The performance received a positive response from the audience, with some appreciating the growth of theatre locally.
"It was such an amazing show. I enjoyed it, and it is nice to see how the Rwandan theatre scene is evolving every day to the point where we can enjoy such a wonderful show," said Ange Iradukunda.
As the event came to an end, Ntarindwa thanked those who attended, reflecting on how the people he met along his journey and their shared experiences helped shape his career and the work he brings to the stage today.