What are the top eight events in Kigali this weekend?
Friday, November 01, 2024
Singer Bruce Melodie shares a moment with a boxer at a previous Universe Boxing Championship event. The third edition returns this Sunday. COURTESY

November may have arrived with a chill, but both rain and sunshine are on the horizon. As always, The New Times is here with a fresh lineup of the week’s top events around town. From nightlife and music to fashion and martial arts, Kigalians and visitors alike can take their pick from these eight standout spots.

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Mudra D Viral Live in Rwanda

This Friday, November 1, Ugandan sensation and "Hoozambe" hitmaker Mudra D Viral will electrify Envy Club at Papyrus, Kimihurura. With Rwanda’s own Alyn Sano joining the stage, the night promises high-energy performances. Doors open at 6 p.m., with DJ sets by Deejay Jo, Deejay Brek, and Deejay Rice. Entry: Rwf10,000.

Nexus Game Night

For game enthusiasts, Friday night at KN14 Ave House 50 in Kimihurura is the place to be. Try your hand at games like Wild Charades, Drunken Tower, foosball, UNO, Jenga, and more from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.Entry: Rwf3,500 per person.

The Stage Fashion Showcase 2nd Edition

Curated by celebrated supermodel Sandrine Mucyo, known as Ssanduina, the second edition of The Stage Fashion Showcase promises an eclectic blend of Rwandan and international fashion talent. Set for Friday, November 1, at Mundi Center, the evening will feature collections by designers like Lisa’s Crochet Designz with her Glory Winter line, Promesse House, and Era Crown, known for pieces inspired by the 1950s through the ’90s.

Other prominent names include Safa Fashion House and Matheo Maurice, a staple in the Rwandan fashion scene. Tickets are Rwf50,000 for Gold and Rwf100,000 for Platinum, offering added perks and a special surprise gift.

East West Street Musical

For a thought-provoking journey through justice and human rights, head to the Kigali Genocide Memorial this Friday, November 1 and 2, for "East West Street."This live performance, making its African debut, commemorates justice, memory, and the roots of modern human rights, inspired by Philippe Sands’ "Return to Lemberg.”

The event will be performed in French and English, blending archival footage, powerful storytelling, and music from Bach to Leonard Cohen, to explore the historical impact of the 1946 Nuremberg Trials.

Supported by Aegis Trust, Ubumuntu Arts Festival, L’Espace, and the German Embassy in Rwanda, this unique, free event underscores the enduring importance of justice in the face of history’s greatest crimes.

Afrobeats: The Haunted Kitchen

This Halloween season, Groove Kigali invites you to experience a spooky twist at Kigali Delight Hotel with "The Haunted Kitchen." Kigali’s top DJs are trading their decks for chef&039;s hats, offering a four-course night of Afrobeats and eerie bites. Set against a haunting backdrop, the night promises music from DJ Marnaud, DJ June, Grvnd Lvng, and DJ Inno.

Entry is Rwf10,000, and the dress code is black-on-black with orange accents to bring a dash of mystery and flair to the festivities.

Mike Kayihura & Boukuru Concert

Kick off November with a night of live music as rising Rwandan star Boukuru and East African fusion artist Mike Kayihura share the stage. Boukuru, whose debut album dropped in September, captivates audiences with her soulful voice and emotive performances.

Kayihura, a Rwandan artist born in Kenya, blends East African, British, and Ethiopian influences into a genre-crossing sound that’s made him a local favorite. The concert takes place this Saturday, November 2, at the Francophone Cultural Center, starting at 7:30 p.m.Admission is Rwf10,000, payable by card or cash.

UBC 3 Trophy Fights

This Sunday, November 3, gear up for a "Super Sunday" with the return of the Universe Boxing Championship’s 3rd edition, known as "Trophy Fights,"starting at 7 p.m. Fans can also catch the Manchester United vs. Chelsea game live on the big screen at 6:30 p.m., making it a double-header sports night.

Entry for both events is Rwf5,000 for regular and Rwf10,000 for VIP access. Special deals are also on offer, with the Universe Tower of 10 beers available for Rwf15,000 and local beers for Rwf2,000.

Meet & Rhyme Sunday

For those seeking an energetic Sunday night, Kimi’s Bar and Grill in Kimihurura’s Bwok Building will host "Meet & Rhyme” on November 3. The evening features sets from DJ Kan of Ruff Cuts DJs and DJ Cad, paired with plenty of nyama choma (grilled meat) and refreshing cocktails, promising a vibrant end to the weekend.