Biz Lounge: Founder of Koelel high school drama club now owns theatre company

"I am on a mission to change the narrative about art since most people still believe it should complement another job in the white-collar sector," Collins Matheri says.

The founder of Skynet Theatres in Nakuru, is determined to change the perception of the arts as a viable career for young people.

Matheri says his journey in the arts began in primary school, where he was part of the music club.

He continued his passion at Koelel High School, where he started writing and directing plays for the school's drama club, which he also pioneered.

"In high school, we only had a music club, so I took it upon myself to start a drama club. I wrote and directed the plays," he says.

After high school, Matheri performed well in the KCSE exam, scoring a B+, but couldn't pursue civil engineering due to financial constraints. 

Instead, he worked as a casual labourer for six months until a former classmate invited him to audition for a theatre group. This opportunity led him to start his own theatre business.

"I joined a theatre group through a classmate where I worked for four years at the theatre group, rising through the ranks until the director left.” 

In 2014, he founded Skynet Theatres with a new crew, initially struggling to get their first show after six months due to a lack of marketing.

"The first year was very difficult. We got our first show after six months because I hadn't invested in marketing, which is crucial for the business," Matheri narrates.

Despite the challenges, Matheri eventually made a profit of Sh. 30,000 after four years, proving that art can be profitable. 

He notes that running a travelling theatre business requires significant capital and the need to pay actors regardless of show revenue.

To support and complement his income, Matheri has diversified his business to include events and catering services.

"I want to ensure the people I work with are properly paid and don't have to worry during the low season. That's why I started offering events and catering services," he explains.

He aims to have all actors under his company on a payroll with a decent income.

Matheri notes, "Most theatre companies pay actors with a 'God bless you' or pennies, which isn't sustainable. Quality productions can attract paying audiences."

The 33-year-old emphasizes the numerous opportunities in theatre, while stressing the importance of understanding the industry.

"It's important to join existing groups to learn the tricks of the trade, capitalize on your strengths, and leverage on them," he advises.

Matheri charges students Sh. 300 to watch three set books and Sh. 400 for four.

He encourages young people to hone their skills over time rather than expecting instant wealth.

He also highlights the importance of financial management for artists, noting that many struggle with managing finances beyond fame.

"It's common for artists to languish in poverty even after successful years in the industry. Financial literacy is crucial to avoid this," he concludes.