Talawa Firsts 2019
19 JUNE - 5 JULY
Fresh Black Voices
Innovative - Electrifying - Unapologetic
Talawa Firsts is the stage for fresh Black creative voices. Hear these voices and be a part of Talawa’s artistic community as we take over the Ditch at Shoreditch Town Hall to celebrate the UK's exciting new Black writers and theatre makers.
Book below for Writers Nights, Workshops and Theatre Maker Nights. Tickets from £5
Wednesdays: Playwrights
A showcase for fresh, exciting new plays by emerging Black playwrights in staged readings.
This year we have fantastic pieces by our fresh playwrights and directors, Tife Kusoro, dir. Abigail Sewell ; Ryan Cameron, dir. Anastasia Osei-Kuffour ; babirye bukilwa, dir. Miranda Cromwell.
Thursdays: Take Part
Provocation, participation and the chance to develop your practice with Talawa and our guest facilitators
This year we have workshops by our own Michael Buffong and hugely talented Jade Lewis, the phenomenal Ewa Dina and Esmee Allman and powerhouse duo Somalia Seaton and Matilda Ibini.
Fridays: Mixed Bills
A platform for innovative, inspiring and exciting Black theatre makers in mixed bill performances
This year our mixed bills will take you on a unique journey, exploring themes of forgiveness, well-being and culture through a mixture of music, dance and theatre. These performances will be BSL interpreted.
Closing Night: A Take Over
Poetry with the incredible Chelle OT, AGAMA, and Dylema with DJ Set by Mwen
Join us as we close Talawa Firsts 2019 with our final night of poetry, music and celebrations. BSL interpretation will be available for this event.
Getting there & Accessibility
This year's events take place in the Ditch at Shoreditch Town Hall
Getting to Shoreditch Town Hall: Shoreditch Town Hall, 380 Old Street, London, EC1V 9LT.
The nearest tube station is Old Street and the nearest Overground station is Shoreditch High Street.
Shoreditch Town Hall is fully accessible. If you have specific access requirements, please ring Shoreditch Town Hall reception on 020 7739 6176 or email marketing@shoreditchtownhall.com
Michael Buffong, Artistic Director, Talawa Theatre Company
“Talawa Theatre Company has always been an essential platform for launching new Black creative talent. The growth of Talawa Firsts proves that fresh, innovative, provocative and unapologetic work by Black creatives is not ‘risky’. There are many stories to be told, and in vital and dynamic ways. Powerful and honest, our Black creatives are writing, performing and creating history.”
Support Us
As a charity we cannot do what we do without your help. You can support Talawa and our Black creatives by becoming a Talawa Maker today!