Curated by associate director Malakaï Sargeant and artistic director Suzann McLean, this year's event will cover themes of migration and belonging, voicing the talent of London’s Black community.
Theatre highlights include the premiere of OJA (The Market), John Akinde’s new play, which unpacks the impact of the black market on communities, featuring Afrobeat rhythms. Voices of Black Folk: In Unexpected Places by playwright and historian Khareem Jamal is an energetic production and retake of history, amplifying voices that have commonly been erased from the history books. Queer Nigerians lead in the new drama how we love, written by Royal Court Writer’s Room alumna Annette Brook.
‘The third year of our Young, Gifted & Black season spotlights moments of movement.’ Sargeant says. ‘Platforming artists from all walks of life who are sharing distinct, nuanced stories reflecting on where we've come from, how we've migrated, what this means for us now and how this informs our Black future.’
McLean adds: ‘When I first launched the Young, Gifted and Black season at Theatre Peckham back 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 3 years in, Theatre Peckham continues to embody a culture of possibilities, a space where voices are heard.’
Young, Gifted & Black runs from 30 September to 6 November at Theatre Peckham.
For more information on the programme, or to buy tickets, visit www.theatrepeckham.co.uk