Talawa Firsts 2019
Miss out on Talawa Firsts 2019? View our artists and their work below
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.
Wednesdays: Playwrights
A showcase for fresh, exciting new plays by emerging Black playwrights in staged readings.
This year we had 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 had 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 took us 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
This year we closed Talawa Firsts 2019 with our final night of poetry, music and celebrations. BSL interpretation will be available for this event.
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!