The tranquil setting of Dunga Hill Camp, with its soothing lake breeze, provided a perfect backdrop for the groundbreaking event.
The event was a testament to the rising trend of visual arts, seamlessly merging with music and dance to create a sensory spectacle.
Gone are the days when performances were confined to the stage; now, they spill into the audience, turning spectators into participants in a living, breathing tapestry of art.
Wakio Mzenge, the writer, co-director, and storyteller, wove intricate tales that complemented Liboi's musical renditions.
Her narratives, rich with cultural heritage and contemporary relevance, were brought to life by Maulid Owino's choreography.
Visual works projected around the venue added another layer to the experience. They illuminated the stories being told, with images that ranged from serene landscapes to abstract representations of power and resilience.
The visual arts, a relatively new norm in Kisumu's entertainment scene, played a pivotal role in transcending traditional boundaries. The show's props and aesthetics were meticulously chosen, enhancing the narrative and engaging the senses.
The evening concluded with a powerful message from Liboi and Wakio. Both artists expressed their commitment to transforming Kenya's art, music, and acting landscape.
They emphasized that excellence and development in the arts could thrive outside of Nairobi, with Kisumu and the greater Lake Region possessing immense untapped potential.
"Visual arts are the next big thing," Wakio declared, her voice filled with conviction. "Kisumu and the Western region are rich with talent and stories that deserve to be told. We are here to lead this charge, to prove that art can flourish anywhere passion and creativity exist."
As the last notes of Liboi's final song lingered in the air, it was clear that "Whispers of Power" had left an indelible mark on Kisumu's music and art scene.
The performance was more than a show; it was a bold statement of what the future holds for African contemporary art.
"We want to traverse from the West to the East of Kenya for a nationwide healing initiative stemming from the conviction that safe spaces need to be established throughout the country," said Liboi.
"Whispers of Power" tour is supported by the French Government's Creation Africa-Kenya project.