The Victoria Hall at Serena Hotel transformed into a pulsating Latin dance floor on March 22nd, as Uganda Dance Nights made its explosive debut.
Organized by dance maestro Richard Valentino Kabenge, the event merged fiery ballroom routines with Ugandan flair—proving Kampala’s appetite for high-energy performance art is insatiable.
Red Carpet Royalty & Show-Stopping Acts
The who’s who of Ugandan entertainment graced the red carpet, but the real magic unfolded on stage:
- Triplets Ghetto Kids traded street-style for cha-cha, stealing the show in sequins.
- Janzi Band fused Afrobeat with salsa, live instrumentation setting the room ablaze.
- Anne Kansiime swapped comedy for a surprise tango—and nailed it.
- Marius Iepure, Valentino’s Romanian dance partner, delivered a paso doble so intense, the front row broke into spontaneous applause mid-routine.
More Than Just Dance: A Cause With Rhythm
Beyond the glitter, the event spotlighted Down syndrome awareness, with Valentino announcing a portion of proceeds funding therapy programs.
“Art without purpose is noise,” he told the crowd. “Tonight, we dance for change.”
Why This Changes Uganda’s Entertainment Game
1. No lip-syncing, no shortcuts—every performance was raw, live energy.
2. A new audience—corporate crowds, expats, and Gen Z united under one roof.
3. Proof that niche sells—tickets sold out weeks prior, despite skepticism.
Valentino’s Promise: “This Is Year One”
With confetti still coating the stage, the host made it clear: “We’re not stopping. Next year—bigger venue, more flames.”
Given the deafening cheers, Kampala will be waiting.
