While the play, Echoes of War, never lived to see the stage at the Melvin Jones School in Nakuru, its message has reverberated far beyond the 63rd National Drama and Film Festival, thanks to digital renditions that have surfaced online.

The play has sparked widespread public interest after an initial ban, a court reinstatement, and a subsequent boycott by Butere Girls High School students. Its themes—reportedly unsettling to some in government—have become the subject of national debate.

Unlike other entries at this year’s drama festival, Echoes of War was silenced when state officials intervened, alleging the festival had been hijacked by political interests. The play was ultimately shut down before its scheduled 8 am performance on Thursday last week. No audience was allowed.