Costume Designer

Based on creator Odile Gakire Katese’s collected letters from survivors and perpetrators of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide, The Book of Life leads audiences on a remarkable journey of pain, grief, acceptance, and rebirth. In this deeply moving performance about finding hope in the aftermath of tragedy, the playwright and cultural entrepreneur’s story reverberates through spoken word and the rhythms of Ingoma Nshya, Rwanda’s first-ever female drumming ensemble founded by Katese. In a world racked with hatred and struggle, The Book of Life celebrates healing after trauma and the resilience of the human spirit.

EPSG:4326

The Book of Life

Festival Hall

Kiki Katese returns to the Festival with her groundbreaking Rwandan women’s drumming group for a joyful performance of music and stories.

Costume Designer

Patrick Lavender

Events

Upcoming events

14 - 16 Aug, 2026

Ingoma! A Revolution in Rhythm · Edinburgh International Festival

Past events

1 - 4 Jun, 2024

The Book of Life · Spoleto Festival USA

About

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