Open call: MTV Shuga Mashariki auditions in Nairobi

This development marks the show’s comeback more than 10 years after MTV SAF debuted the MTV Shuga franchise in Kenya in 2009.

The drama series, accompanied by radio, digital, social media, and on-the-ground educational activities, integrates health messaging into storylines that reflect the lives and experiences of youth audiences. The MTV Shuga series has been set in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Ivory Coast and India.

“At the heart of MTV Shuga’s return is its unwavering focus on storytelling to change the lives of Kenyan youth,” MTV Staying Alive Foundation said. “From script to screen, this season’s entire production is informed by local youth-centred research and designed to tackle restrictive, harmful gender norms that affect the outcomes of young people's lives in Kenya.”

MTV Shuga Mashariki will be a 100% Kenyan production, ensuring that every aspect of the show reflects the authentic experiences and voices of Kenyan youth. In its return, the production of MTV Shuga Mashariki will draw from extensive evidence that has shown that authentic youth-centred storytelling can help shift restrictive norms.

In a bid to broaden its reach to aspiring actors across the country and nurture local talent, the show will hold both physical and virtual open auditions this month.

Both in person and online cast submissions, will be reviewed by the casting team after which shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps.

Open auditions in Nairobi

Actors based in Nairobi are invited to attend open auditions from 11 to 13 October 2024 from 8am to 6pm at the University of Nairobi (main campus). Registration closes 10 October.

Online submissions

The auditions will also include online submissions as an option for those unable to make it to the physical auditions. Aspiring actors should submit the following materials by 13 October:

• A professional headshot.
• A brief introductory video and 30-second monologue performance.

How to audition

Sign up for physical or virtual auditions here.

Eligibility

Open to Kenyan citizens aged 18–30 years only. Please note that you can only apply for either the physical or virtual auditions. Dual applications will be disqualified.

More details and updates about MTV Shuga Mashariki can be found here.