Theatre Peckham is set to showcase the incredible talent and creativity of Black British artists with the return of its highly anticipated Young, Gifted, and Black season. Now in its sixth year, this program will run from October 6 to November 2 at the award-winning Havil Street venue. The season promises to unveil untold stories, honor unsung heroes, and celebrate the rich tapestry of black culture.
Curated by co-producers Lara Grace Ilori and Joshua Aketse-Entsie, this year’s Young, Gifted, and Black season kicks off with a vibrant celebration of black culture, featuring a legacy film titled ‘Hard to Let’, produced by Theatre Peckham in the early ’90s. The season will also include five powerful plays, a spoken word event, a scratch night showcasing new Black writers, and community conversations focused on the Young Black British experience.
One of the standout plays featured in the season is ’32 Peak Street’ by South Londoner Corey Bovell. This fast-paced and witty comedy follows a millennial couple as they navigate the challenges of becoming homeowners. Juggling a crumbling business, a cramped flat, and the impending responsibilities of parenthood, they must confront their past in order to build a brighter future for their family.
In addition to ’32 Peak Street’, the Young, Gifted, and Black season will also feature a diverse range of plays, including ‘The Immortal Henrietta Lacks’ commissioned by Gyenyame for Performing Arts, ‘None of The Clocks Work’ by Southwark’s Bridge the Gap Studios, Alison Ray’s ‘Unknown Soldier’, and ‘Cleopatra’s Antony’ directed by Mo Korede. Each play offers a unique perspective on the Black British experience, showcasing the talent and creativity of the artists involved.
Suzann McLean MBE, Chief Executive of Theatre Peckham, expressed her excitement for the season, stating, “This season is a celebration of the creators and performers who are amplifying the stories of our community. Their voices are essential, and we are committed to providing a platform for their brilliance.” With a lineup of compelling plays and events, the Young, Gifted, and Black season promises to be a showcase of Black excellence in the arts.
Subheadings:
Celebrating Black Culture and Creativity
The Young, Gifted, and Black season at Theatre Peckham is a celebration of Black culture and creativity, showcasing the stories and experiences of the Black British community. Through a diverse range of plays, events, and conversations, the season aims to highlight the talent and resilience of Black artists and performers. Unveiling Untold Stories and Honoring Unsung Heroes
One of the key objectives of the Young, Gifted, and Black season is to unveil untold stories and honor unsung heroes within the Black British community. By shining a spotlight on these often overlooked narratives, the season seeks to challenge stereotypes and celebrate the diversity and richness of Black culture. Providing a Platform for Black Brilliance
Theatre Peckham’s commitment to providing a platform for Black brilliance is evident in the lineup of plays and events featured in the Young, Gifted, and Black season. By showcasing the work of Black writers, directors, and performers, the season offers a space for Black voices to be heard and celebrated in the arts community.
One of the key objectives of the Young, Gifted, and Black season is to unveil untold stories and honor unsung heroes within the Black British community. By shining a spotlight on these often overlooked narratives, the season seeks to challenge stereotypes and celebrate the diversity and richness of Black culture.
