Young, gifted and black in Theatre Peckham

Theatre Peckham’s Young, Gifted & Black Season 2021 will run for five weeks from September to November, and champions a mix of experimental theatre focusing on new writing, poetry, film and discussion.

Key themes explored in the season are the interrogation of migration and belonging.

Theatre highlights include new writing in the form of OJÀ (The Market) by John Akinde which launches the season.

This story which uncovers the impact of the black market on communities and survival by any means necessary is powerful and peppered with Afrobeat rhythms.

Voices of Black Folk: In Unexpected Places by playwright and historian Khareem Jamal is an insightful and energetic retake of history, amplifying voices that many have tried to erase.

Queer Nigerians Regi and Babs put their friendship to the test by planning to marry to fool the authorities in Royal Court Writer’s Room alumna Annette Brook’s insightful queer drama how we love.

Poetry takes front and centre stage with international poet, acclaimed Barber Shop Chronicles playwright and author Inua Ellams bringing, for one night only, his Search Party to Peckham.

Poetic Unity presents The Poetry Foyer, the first of their monthly spoken word events, with some of the UK’s best young black poets gracing the stage.

Artistic director Suzann McLean said: “When I first launched the Young, Gifted and Black season at Theatre Peckham in 2019, my hope was that it would grow as a festival which celebrates and honours the black experience in the UK and all of the intersectionalities within.

“I am so proud that three years in, Theatre Peckham continues to embody a culture of possibilities, a space where voices are heard.”

Main Pic: Suzanne McLean