Betrayal in the City” is a powerful play by African playwright Francis Imbuga. It was first published in 1976, and addresses the troublesome effects of freedom and independence in post-colonial African nations. These nations have been either repressed or reduced to everyday violence for so long that their inhabitants are left to wonder if they even have a say in their country’s future. This repression and/or violence often involves politics, with the very real monsters being those who hold power at the highest levels.

Though Africa is riddled with corrupt politicians, Imbuga’s play is careful not to name anyone in particular, thus keeping him safe from retaliation. In fact, Imbuga’s play is set in a fictional country, known as Kafira, and its characters not only have generic names, such as Boss, Tumbo and Mosese, but many have generic traits, allowing them to be anyone, from any country. Imbuga’s generic characters and setting work twofold in this way: they not only allow him to critique corrupt politicians and systems of government in Africa, they also transcend Africa due to their generic nature, thus pointing an accusatory finger at corrupt politicians and systems of government around the world.

The Cast is led by Arthur Kisenyi as Jusper Wendo, Kato Lauben as Tumbo, Keith Muganza as Boss, Justus Barongo, Edwin Sekatawa, Kawesa Ronals, Nalubowa Rebecca among other wonderful performers.