Tribute to Robert Redford

This week on Tuesday, 16th September 2025, the world lost Robert Redford, who passed away at the age of 89. To many, he was a legendary actor, director, and founder of the Sundance Institute. To us at Tebere Arts Foundation, he will always be remembered as a visionary who believed in the power of theatre and a true friend of East African artists.

Through the Sundance Institute Theatre Programme, Robert Redford extended his passion and generosity far beyond Hollywood. He championed initiatives led by East Africans themselves, ensuring that artists from our region were not only included but supported to thrive. His vision made it possible for the Sundance Institute East Africa Initiative to take root, nurturing creativity, collaboration, and bold storytelling across the region.

One of the most enduring legacies of that commitment is the Kampala International Theatre Festival, which Sundance supported faithfully until 2021. That festival continues to stand as a testament to Robert Redford’s belief in the transformative power of the arts and his dedication to building platforms where East African voices could be heard on the global stage.

We remember him not just for his global achievements, but for his kindness, humility, and unwavering advocacy for theatre—his first love. He carried himself without the airs of celebrity and always expressed genuine interest in the struggles and triumphs of artists around the world.

Robert Redford’s passing is a profound loss. Yet his legacy will continue to live on in every performance, every festival, and every artist who was touched by his vision. Tebere Arts Foundation joins the global arts community in celebrating his extraordinary life and honoring the mark he left on our region.