Barbican
Sat 6 Oct
Barbican Jazz
Europe’s leading international jazz series, produced in association with Serious, brings back saxophone virtuoso, bandleader and British jazz inspiration Courtney Pine in a special audio-visual project to mark the bicentenary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act.
Barbican Hall, 8pm, £15-£25,
tel: 0845 120 7550,
info@barbican.org.uk,
www.barbican .org.uk.
Barnet
Thu 4 Oct - Sat 6 Oct
Shades of Brown
Rasa presents ‘Shades of Brown’ at artsdepot’s Studio Theatre.
How can one person’s healthy glow be another’s social stigma? Around the globe, money and time is pured into tanning or bleaching. Rani Moorthy, with her celebrated mix of warm and powerful storytelling, transforms into funny and poignant characters who share an ironic kinship through the one thing they cannot hide or hide from - their skin.
Shades of Brown is a one woman show about melanin from the team that brought you Curry Tales. Whatever shade of brown you are or want to be, this play will get under your skin.
Arts Depot, 8pm, £8-£10, tel: 020 8369 5454, www.artsdepot.co.uk.
Sat 27 Oct
African Experience Exhibition
Workshops and discussions about the ‘African experience’ run by the African Cultural Association.
Burnt Oak Library, 2pm-4.30pm, free, tel: 020 8959 8743,
Sun 4 Nov
Brent Cross Diwali Mela
Presented by Brent Cross Shopping Centre in association with Barnet Council with a Bollywood dance spectacular and Dhol drummers on centre stage, Brent Cross Shopping Centre will be the place to celebrate the Hindu festival of Diwali.
Brent Cross Shopping Centre, 10.30am-5pm, free, tel: 020 8202 8095.
Back to top
Bromley
Tue 16 Oct
Diversity Day in Bromley
Music, dance, ethnic food, reading, poetry and displays.
Bromley Civic Centre, 10.30am-2.30pm, free, tel: 020 8676 5650, info@bromley.gov.uk,
www.bromley.gov.uk.
Back to top
Brixton
Wed 17 Oct -
Brixton Audio Walks
A new audio walking tour of Brixton. The walks are MP3 downloads available from our website and tell the history of Jamaican immigration to Brixton, accounts of the Brixton Riots of 1981 as well as information on the markets and other history of Brixton's streets. They will be available on the website in a couple of days.
SW9 Café, Walks are 1 hour long, £5.99, tel: 07725 566 475, www.soundmap.co.uk.
Back to top
BTWSC (Brent)
Fri 26 Oct
The Great Brent Black Music History Quiz.
An entertaining multi-media evening for the family with music, video and quiz based on information from the Brent Black Music History Project (BBMHP), DVD and booklet. Free prizes. Learn your local history, meet some local icons, plus special prizes for those that beat BBMHP leader Kwaku with their deep local music history knowledge!
The Space, 7.30pm-9.30pm, free, 020 8450 5987, info@btwsc.com,
www.btwsc.com.
 |
Abram Wilson, Artdepot, Oct 20th |
Thu 1 Nov
Putting The Abolition & Slavery Into Perspective
BTWSC co-ordinator and NewAfricanPerspective contributor Ms Serwah leads this programme, which consists of a brief timeline of the trans-Atlantic slave trade followed by a presentation focused on putting the Abolition of the slave trade into perspective. The presentation will highlight the African resistance to slavery and the role of the likes of Queen Nzinga and Nana (Nanny) of the Maroons, and examine the role of abolitionists such as Ottobah Coguano, the Haiti revolution and Toussaint L’Ouverture, and the boycotts leading to the passing of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act.
The Space, 6.30pm-8.30pm, free, tel: 020 8450 5987, info@btwsc.com, www.btwsc.com.
Fri 2 Nov
From The Talking Drums To Rap & Grime
Highlights the story of slavery from Africa to the present day diasporic experience through narration by Black Music Congress founder Kwaku, and a musical concert by the Bese Saka: The Umbrella Arts Group Of The Diaspora, featuring percussionist, singer and producer Niles ‘Asheber’ Hailstones, vocalist, Afro-beat and traditional drummer Adesose Wallace, soul singer-songwriter Noel McKoy, plus up & coming rap & grime rappers.
Tavistock Hall, 7pm-9.30pm, free, tel: 020 450 5987, info@btwsc.com, www.btwsc.com.
Mon 26 Nov
Brent Black Music History Exhibition
A photographic exhibition of the photos of artists, music industry players, and buildings with a black music history, as captured by Patrick Friday and Kwaku for the Brent Black Music History Project (BBMHP) DVD and booklet. The year-long exhibition will be kept fresh with changes in photos, plus small events based around the exhibition. Produced by BTWSC in association with BritishBlackMusic.com/Black Music Congress and Brent Library.
Brent Museum, 2pm-4pm, free, 020 8450 5987, info@btwsc.com,
www.btwsc.com.
Back to top
 |
Slavery the play, Croydon Clocktower, Oct 29th |
Camden
Sat 29 Sep
An evening of history, poetry and music.
The exciting line-up includes two world-renowned poets, Poet Beyonder and Poet Malika, reciting a collection of their recent poetry, Alistair Bain, performing a few of his famous stories, and internationally acclaimed Reggae artist Jimmy Lindsay famously known for his album “Children of Rastafari” will perform some classic songs.
Places are limited so please arrive early to avoid disappointment.
Swiss Cottage Library, 7pm-9.30pm, free, tel: 020 7974 6522,
www.camden.gov.uk/swisscottagelibrary.
Mon 8 Oct
Claudia Jones screening & discussion with Tony Warner
Profile of political activist Claudia Jones, the woman who startedThe Notting Hill Carnival and founded the West Indian Gazette, the first popular newspaper within the Black Community.
Swiss Cottage Gallery, 6.30pm-7.30pm, free, tel: 020 7974 6522,
www.camden.gov.uk/swisscottagelibrary.
Tue 9 Oct
Heath Library
Petrie Museum Slavery/Topic Box Discussion
Investigating a loan box on slavery and abolitionist artefacts from the award winning Petrie Museum of London University, 11am-12pm, free, tel: 020 7679 2884,
www.petrie.ucl.ac.uk.
Sun 14 Oct
The Last Supper/La Ultima Cena screening and discussion.
The film opens a window onto a past, remembered in 2007 by some who celebrate the bicentenary of ‘the ending of the slave trade’ but who forget that the abolition of slavery was a hard road fought for by slaves as portrayed by Alea.
The discussion will be led by Michael Chanan (Professor of Film and Video at Roehampton University, London), Jacqui McKenzie (Caribbean Labour Solidarity), Dionne Walker (Lead Co-ordinator for the 1807-2007 Abolition Programme and Chair of Black History Month Steering Group for the London Borough of Camden) and Dr Stephen Wilkinson (Assistant Director of the International Institute for Cuban Sudies, London Metropolitan University).
Brunswick Centre, 10.30am, £7, tel: 020 7837 8402,
www.curzoncinemas.com.
Mon 15 Oct
Author Paul Crooks will lead a discussion on his book ‘Ancestors’ – the story of an African Caribbean family from Africa to Europe tracing their roots.
West Hampstead Library, 7.30pm-8.30pm, free, tel: 020 7974 6610,
www.camden.gov.uk/westhampsteadlibrary.
Fri 19 Oct
Abolition of Slave Trade Poetry Slam
Camden Black Workers Group (CBWG) Black History Month Poetry Slam is particularly aimed at young people aged from 12 to 23 years. Young people will be able to present their poetry rhymes around the theme of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Events, historical figures of slavery and the process of its abolition will encourage young participants to research, rap and slam with inventive poetry relating directly to transatlantic slavery.
The Roundhouse FREEDM Studio, 5pm-10pm, £1 donation, tel: 0870 389 1846,
www.roundhouse.org.uk.
Sat 20 Oct
Africa’s Greatest Resource Documentary & Discussion with Historian Steve Taylor
This tells the true story of one African, Thomas Peters, who escaped slavery, fought for the British in the American War of Independence and was promised a new beginning in Nova Scotia.
Swiss Cottage Library, 6.30pm-8.30pm, free, tel: 020 7974 6522,
www.camden.gov.uk/swisscottagelibrary.
 |
Covent Garden:
Bobby Kray |
Wed 31 Oct
An evening of entertainment and remembrance.
Arthur Torrington from the Equiano Society will deliver a talk on the life of Oludah Equiano. Equiano was born in what is now Nigeria and bought in the West Indies as a slave. He spent the last part of his life in Fitzrovia campaigning for the abolition of slavery. His autobiography, written as he lived in Tottenham Street, played an important part in turning popular opinion against the trade and earned him lasting fame.
Music will be provided by the Buru Drummers - Rastafarian drummers known for their cultural sounds from Africa and veteran Reggae artist Jimmy London best known for his hit single “A Little Love”, will perform some of his greatest hits.
Swiss Cottage Gallery, 7pm-9pm, free, tel: 020 7974 6522, www.camden.gov.uk/swisscottagelibrary.
Back to top
Covent Garden
Tue 9 Oct
‘Best of British’ – Sickle Cell Society
High profile DJ’s and acts are aiming to raise money and the profile of the Sickle Cell disease. Artists and DJ’s performing include Aaron Ross, Bugz in the Attic, Footloose, Alex Mills, Bobby Kray, DaVinChe, Ny, Steelo, Travis Blaque and Ty. All the proceeds will go to the Sickle Cell Society (reg. charity number 104 6631).
Guanabara, 5pm-2.30am, £5, tel: 07830 106 595, info@diggingthecrates.com,
www.myspace.com/cellardoorandfriends, Tickets available via ticketweb on 08700 600 100 or go to www.ticketweb.co.uk
Back to top
 |
Chatsva, Croyon clocktower, Oct 10th |
Croydon
Wed 10 Oct
Chatsva
Tavaziva Dance’s six high-octane dancers explode with an evening of four new works. Their trademark exploration of African dance traditions within a Western
contemporary style is performed to music ranging from Zimbabwean choral to contemporary pop.
Croydon Clocktower, 7.30pm, £12, tel: 020 8253 1038,
arts@croydon.gov.uk, www.croydon.gov.uk.
Fri 19 Oct
Abram Wilson & the Delta Blues Project: Ride! Ferris Wheel to the Modern Day Delta
Albert Jenkins, a young trumpeter from Mississippi, is destined to take over the family jazz club but opts instead for a drug-fuelled life of touring with a hip-hop band. In the midst of the heady excitement he soon finds his loyalties torn between old and new. New Orleans trumpeter Abram Wilson and his 10-piece band tell a story in music which is proving to be one of the most exciting adventures in jazz today.
Croydon Clocktower, 7.30pm, £12, tel: 020 8253 1038,
arts@croydon.gov.uk,
www.croydon.gov.uk.
Thu 25 Oct
Shades of Brown
Around the globe, money and time is poured into tanning or bleaching skin. But why is one person’s healthy glow another person’s social stigma? Rani Moorthy transforms herself into a South African albino, a skin-bleaching Indian bride and a host of other funny and poignant characters who share an ironic kinship through the varying shades of their skin.
Croydon Clocktower, 8pm, £10,
tel: 020 8253 1038,
arts@croydon.gov.uk,
www.croydon.gov.uk.
Mon 29 Oct
Slavery (UK Premiere)
Drawn from interviews with former slaves, this powerful drama combines personal testimony with beautiful Negro spirituals to create a remarkable insight into a dark period of history.
Croydon Clocktower, 7.30pm, £10, tel: 020 8253 1030,
arts@croydon.gov.uk,
www.croydon.gov.uk.
Back to top
 |
London Sugar and Slavery Museum, Docklands |
Docklands
Thu 23 Aug
Slavery Remembrance Day
Join writer and historian SI Martin for a gallery tour to commemorate Slavery Remembrance Day (August 23rd) exploring the museum galleries and surrounding West India Quay. Tours will reveal the tremendous wealth of the docks and the underlying foundation of much of the wealth. An earlier walk at 2pm will be for children 13 and under. At 3.30 there will be a walk for adults and children 14 and above.
Museum in Docklands, 2pm-3pm, free (book in advance, groups of five or more), tel: 0870 444 3855,
www.museumindocklands.org.uk
Sat 25 Aug
Joseph Johnson
Meet the nineteenth century storyteller and black merchant sailor Joseph Johnson, who made his name as a street story teller in the 19th century. Let him transport you with his tales of adventure.
Museum in Docklands, 12.30pm-3.55pm, free (book in advance, groups of five or more),
tel: 0870 444 3855,
www.museumindocklands.org.uk.
Sat 13 Oct
Come and help create an enormous map of the world in sugar, if you can resist eating it...! Learn about where sugar came from, the many hands it passed through, how it came to England to be stored here at the docklands. You will discover important connections which changed London forever.
Museum in Docklands, 2pm-4pm, free (book in advance, groups of five or more),tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk.
 |
Docklands: West India Dock |
Sat 27 Oct
Running a 1000 miles to freedom.
Discover the inspiring story of Ellen Craft, talk of Victorian London. Through Ellen’s audacity and ingenuity she overcame many dangers to become a celebrated abolitionist.
Museum in Docklands, 12.30pm-3.55pm, free (book in advance, groups of five or more),
tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk.
Thu 8 Nov
Compensation for slavery?
Significant discussion is underway, especially in the United States, over reparations for slavery through payments to descendants of the enslaved. In Britain in the 1830s, when the enslaved in most of Britain’s colonies were freed, payment went not to the enslaved but to the slave-owners. The British Government paid £20 million, then an enormous sum, to slave-owners and merchant-creditors largely resident in Britain. This lecture looks at how and why such payment happened, and describes who were the British slave-owners at the time. Many of these slave-owners lived and worked in London, and the lecture highlights some of the legacies of this compensation money in London and elsewhere in Britain, and asks what are the implications today of the payments to slave-owners in the 1830s.
Museum in Docklands, 1.10pm-2pm, free (book in advance, groups of five or more), tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk.
London, Sugar & Slavery
To celebrate the opening of London’s only permanent gallery to explore the city’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade, on 10 November, we have an exciting line up of theatrical storytellers, captivating speakers and live music.
Sat 10 Nov
Remembrance
"Was Hitler's thirst for empire any different from that of the Europe of the last three hundred years? ... super powers were carving up Eastern Europe as they had carved up Africa in the last century" Join us at the Museum for a short ceremony at West India Quay to commemorate the West Indian Service Men and Women of World War ll. The ceremony will be followed by an interview with the author of this quotation, Cy Grant. His extraordinary life as a black RAF officer, prisoner of war, qualified barrister, singer and author epitomises the complex and interconnected history of the lives of Caribbean and British people.
Museum in Docklands, 11am, free, tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk/slavery.
Sun 11 Nov
Film: The Three Dumas
The story of Alexander Dumas and his family is as moving as "The Man in the Iron Mask", or any of his other swashbuckling novels. Indeed many of their true life events can be traced in his wonderful stories. Grandson of a slave, the writer Alexander Dumas and his son experienced extraordinary times. Discover their story in this groundbreaking film.
Museum in Docklands, 3pm, free, tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk/slavery.
Fri 16 Nov
Olaudoh Equiano: his life and times (Courses 16+)
Join an international panel in an exploration of London's greatest black abolitionist. Vincent Carretta (USA), Paul Lovejoy (Canada), Alexander X. Byrd (USA), Clive Harris (UK), Helena Woodard (USA), Jim Walvin (UK).
Museum in Docklands, 10am, £20, tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk/slavery.
Sat 17 Nov
Drama: Running a 1000 miles to freedom
Discover the inspiring story of Ellen Craft, talk of Victorian London. Through Ellen's audacity and ingenuity she overcame many dangers to become a celebrated abolitionist.
Museum in Docklands, 12.30pm-3.30pm, free, tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk/slavery
Sun 18 Nov
Films: Slave catchers, slave resisters
This film, set in the era of a simmering conflict that eventually divided a nation, vividly explores the strength and ingenuity of enslaved African Americans engaged in actively resisting oppression. Through recreations, archival material, and scholarly interviews the film delves into slave policing enforced by militias, armed community slave patrols, paid slave catchers, and federal law. Watch this film to discover how Africans fought back against the odds.
Museum in Docklands, 3pm, free, tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk/slavery
Sun 18 Nov
Walks 14+: West India Dock and the Caribbean
This walking tour explores the history, memories and legacy of the Transatlantic Slave Trade in West India Dock, opened in 1802. The Dock was built with government backing to serve the interests of slave traders and others profiting from slavery. Not only were vast quantities of goods produced by enslaved people in the Caribbean imported here but merchant ships sailing from this dock could also have been used in the enslavement of Africans.
The tour will explore statues, buildings, streets, and sites such as the Number 1 Warehouse, (now the Museum in Docklands), the Robert Milligan Statue, the Guard House and West India Dock Arch, along with contemporary art in the area. The walk will also reflect on the absence of memorials, on what has been commemorated and what has been forgotten.
Museum in Docklands, 10.30am, £7.50, tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk/slavery
Thu 22 Nov
Lecture 16+: The Black Presence in London and the Legacy of Slavery
Many of the discussions around the 1807 Abolition Act this year have continued to locate 'Black History' as something that happened outside Britain and have confined the legacies of the British slave trade within the Caribbean and Africa. Dr. Caroline Bressey will focus upon the continuing Black presence in London following the so-called abolition and will also consider how the lasting legacies of slavery impact upon the Black presence in London today.
Museum in Docklands, 1.10pm, free, tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk/slavery
Sun 25 Nov
Drama: Running a 1000 miles to freedom
Discover the inspiring story of Ellen Craft, talk of Victorian London. Through Ellen's audacity and ingenuity she overcame many dangers to become a celebrated abolitionist.
Museum in Docklands, 12.30pm, free, tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk/slavery
Sun 25 Nov
Storytelling 2+: Africa abroad
Discover the story of Africa, a much admired little boy in eighteenth century London who had to run away when he grew up, and hide in an amazing pleasure garden.
Museum in Docklands, 12.30pm, free, tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk/slavery
Sun 25 Nov
Walks 14+: West India Dock and the Caribbean
This walking tour explores the history, memories and legacy of the Transatlantic Slave Trade in West India Dock, opened in 1802. The Dock was built with government backing to serve the interests of slave traders and others profiting from slavery. Not only were vast quantities of goods produced by enslaved people in the Caribbean imported here but merchant ships sailing from this dock could also have been used in the enslavement of Africans.
The tour will explore statues, buildings, streets, and sites such as the Number 1 Warehouse, (now the Museum in Docklands), the Robert Milligan Statue, the Guard House and West India Dock Arch, along with contemporary art in the area. The walk will also reflect on the absence of memorials, on what has been commemorated and what has been forgotten.
Museum in Docklands, 2.30pm, £7.50, tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk/slavery
Thu 6 Dec
Literature 16+: Undressing Empire: Black British Perspectives
How far did Imperialism transform the aesthetics and perspectives of the African diaspora in the UK? How did people of African descent use their arts and lifestyles to liberate them from the empirical yoke? How effective were they in refuting the labels that the empire placed upon them?
Undressing Empire is a series of events to coincide with the publication of the SABLE: Black British Perspectives Volumes: Past, Present and Future. Chaired by Toyin Agetbu, featuring readings and a round table discussion with new work from poet Dorothea Smartt and talks from writer Michael McMillan and SABLE editor Susan Yearwood. This event is produced in partnership with SABLE
Museum in Docklands, 7pm, £3-£5, tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk/slavery
Sat 8 Dec
Special event 7+: Unheard voices
Join Malorie Blackman and Sandra Agard as they introduce their new anthology, Unheard Voices, by combining readings with storytelling and discussion.
Unheard Voices is an anthology for children which bring together a swell of voices to speak of the desolation of the Atlantic slave trade.
Museum in Docklands, 3pm, free, tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk/slavery
Sat 15 Dec
Drama: Running a 1000 miles to freedom
Discover the inspiring story of Ellen Craft, talk of Victorian London. Through Ellen's audacity and ingenuity she overcame many dangers to become a celebrated abolitionist.
Museum in Docklands, 12.30pm, free, tel: 0870 444 3855, www.museumindocklands.org.uk/slavery
Back to top
 |
Jay Bernard |
Ealing
Wed 3 Oct
Ancestors – Paul Crooks
At the age of ten, Paul Crooks’ great-great-great-grandfather, John Alexander Crooks, was captured and put aboard a slave ship bound for Jamaica. Ancestors is the fictionalised account of John’s experiences from 1798 to 1838, and follows two captives whose lives remain entwined, their hopes and struggles for emancipation.
Acton Library, 7pm, free, tel: 0208 752 0999,
actolib@ealing.gov.uk, www.ealing.gov.uk.
Thu 4 Oct
National Poetry Day and Black History Month
Poetry Slam: Your chance to take the stage with MC Yemisi Blake as well as the best in new poetic talent as three young, hotly tipped Black British poets cross the divide of page and stage.
Acton Library, 5.30pm, free, tel: 0208 752 0999,
actolib@ealing.gov.uk, www.ealing.gov.uk.
Sat 6 Oct
Black History Month ‘On the Net’
Would you like surfing the net to find out more about Black History Month? Use the internet to discover more about Africa and the Carribean and create your own exciting links!
Southall Library, 2pm-4pm, free,
tel: 0208 574 3412,
soutlib@ealing.gov.uk, www.ealing.gov.uk.
Tue 9 Oct
Akuba Telling Tales
Award-winning African storyteller and poetess. Come and be enchanted by Akuba’s mesmerising use of drama, song, poetry, together with African cultural artifacts to bring her own and others tales to life. She welcomes audience participation and encourages people of all ages to create their own tales.
Acton Library, 6pm, Admission free, tel: 0208 752 0999,
actolib@ealing.gov.uk,
www.ealing.gov.uk.
Tue 23 Oct
Abolition of the Slave Trade
Richard Reddie, director of Set All Free, organised the Westminster Abbey service to commemorate the bicentenary of the Anti-Slave Trade Act. Born in Bradford to Jamaican parents, he has had an active interest in slavery, abolition, religion and race since his teens. Abolition!, his first book, is a compelling account of the transatlantic slave trade, the struggle to bring it to an end and the role of Africans in helping to achieve their own liberation.
Acton Library, 7pm, free, tel: 0208 752 0999,
actolib@ealing.gov.uk, www.ealing.gov.uk.
Sat 27 Oct
Tracing Your Black Roots - Patrick Vernon of ‘Every Generation’
Find out how to trace your own Black ancestors. A family history seminar involving an interactive debate on the issues and challenges for the African Caribbean community in tracing their family tree from the impact of slavery and colonisation. The session will explore issues around using records, oral history and DNA and will focus on a case study based on a recent book of the family history of Patrick Vernon’s mother’s descendants, the Shirley family in eighteenth century Jamaica.
Acton Library, 2pm-4pm, free,
tel: 0208 752 0999,
actolib@ealing.gov.uk,
www.ealing.gov.uk.
Tue 30 Oct
Anthony Joseph and Ronnie McGrath in association with Penned in the Margins
Dubbed ‘the leader of the Black British avant-garde’, Anthony Joseph is a poet, musician and fiction writer born in Trinidad. Ronnie McGrath is a poet, novelist and painter and founder-member of the London Afro Blok.
Acton Library, 7pm, free, tel: 0208 752 0999,
actolib@ealing.gov.uk, www.ealing.gov.uk.
Back to top
Embankment
Mon 15 Oct – Tue 16 Oct
Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Vusi Mahlasela
Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s chorus of powerful harmonies emote the struggles and passion of South Africa. The warmth and charisma of founder and composer Joseph Shabalala, a man who has survied apartheid with his spirit whole, shines through Mambazo’s music - their captivating Zulu harmonies are a proud, strong homage to the jubilancem power and beauty of indigenous music. Their music explores issues of racism, fair trade and politics among others. After they employed their music to celebrate the end of the aparteid era, Nelson Mandela publicly called Ladysmith “South Africa’s cultural ambassadors”, following his release from prison. The group sings acapella isicathamiya and mbube muisc - loud, powerful choruses contrast with softer, almost whispering chants where voices blend harmoniously, combined with tightly-choreographed dance moves that keep the singers on their toes.
South Bank Centre, 7.30pm, £10-£27.50, tel: 08701 663 2505,
www.southbankcentre.co.uk.
Back to top
Enfield
Thu 23 Aug – Sun 28 Oct
Enfield & the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade
The theme of the exhibition is ‘Enfield and the Transatlantic Slave Trade’ and it has been put together by Enfield’s museum service in partnership with the British Museum and the Enfield Racial Equality Council. Museum manager, Val Munday, said, “To bring the exhibition to life we have borrowed objects from the British Museum. These objects relate to the Ashante, Yoruba and Afikpo people – many of whom were transported here during the slave trade.
Forty Hall Museum, 11am-4pm, free, tel: 020 8379 1468, val.munday@enfield.gov.uk,
www.enfield .gov.uk.
Back to top
Epping
Fri 24 Aug – Tue 30 Oct
‘The Longest Journey: from slavery to abolition’
This exhibition explores Essex links with the slave trade and abolition movement, through the collections ofl Essex Museums and the Essex Record Office.
Epping Forest District Museum, 2pm-5pm, free, tel: 01992 716 882, www.eppingforestdistrictmuseum.org.uk.
Back to top
Euston
Tue 30 Oct
Winners 2: The Rise and Rise of Black British Entrepreneurs
As part of Black History Month, the British Library will host a celebration of the contribution of Black British entrepreneurs in the UK today. The Library is delighted that Kanya King, founder of the MOBO awards and one of the most influential women in the music business is confirmed among our guest speakers. Delegates will also have the opportunity to quiz panellists on the secrets of their success
British Library Conference Centre, 6.15pm-9pm, 7.15pm-10pm, free, tel: 020 7387 0317, www.sconul.ac.uk
Back to top
 |
Nitro - An Aftican Caargo at Greenwich Theatre |
Greenwich & Lewisham
Mon 6 Oct – Fri 31 Oct
Ghana 50 Music Exhibition
The African Image Alliance’s Ghana 50 festival & exhibition focuses on both the contemporary and historical aspects of Ghanaian culture. The exhibit features a collection of rare photographs, publications, videos and music documents chronicling Ghana’s musical history. The exhibit spans the reflection of music as a narrator of social life in Ghana - from the early brass bands and palm wine/highlife music of the 1940’s through to the emergence of Fusion Music (Reggae, Afro beat, Ngonoli, Kpanlogo and Wnlomi) of the 70’s and 80’s - to Burgher Highlife and present day Hiplife Music.
Greenwich Heritage Centre, daytime, free, tel: 020 7243 6611, g50musicexhibit@africanimagealliance.org, www.africanimageallianceorg.
Sat 29 Sep
Greenwich Council’s Black History Month Launch
Join us as we celebrate Black History Month, with a day of activities for all the family, with creative workshops, music and performances from local groups and organisations. Tickets for workshop activities will be available from the admissions desk on the day.
National Maritime Museum, day-time, 11am-6pm, 020 8921 6109,
www.greenwich.gov.uk, www.nmm.ac.uk.
Thu 4 Oct & Fri 5 Oct
Amazing Grace
Taking its name from the famous song, Amazing Grace tells the story of William Wilberforce, the leader of the parliament abolitionists of the 18th century. A tireless campaigner, Wilberforce’s deep ethical convictions led him to take on the powerful pro-slavery lobby and win. Released to coincide with the 200 anniversary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act, the film is bold gripping, with a central them of personal crusade against injustice that is as relevant now as it’s ever been.
Broadway Theatre, 7pm, £4-£5, tel: 020 869 00002,
www.broadwaytheatre.org.uk.
 |
Ghana 50 Music Exhibition:
Greenwich Heritage Centre, until Oct 30th |
Thu 18 Oct
Design, Diversity & Dance
A Fairtrade fashion show for Black history Month with cultural dance performances by students from Greenwich dance agency’s NRgDANCE programme and original designs by fashion students from Greenwich Community College.
Greenwich Community College, 7pm-8pm, free, tel: 020 8854 2452, info@gcc.ac.uk,
www.greenwich.gov.uk.
Thu 18 Oct
Lewisham Film Initiative
Local filmmakers and winners of the BHM Short Film Challenge (receiving up to £1000, mentoring from spectrecom and distribution through ITV Local London) screen their work. Followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers. Supported by Lewisham Arts Service.
Albany, 7.30pm, free, tel: 020 8692 4446, www.thealbany.org.uk.
Mon 22 Oct
Carers Lewisham: Celebration of Black People
This event will look at the part that people from different ethnic backgrounds play in the fight for freedom from Africa to the Caribbean. Enjoy guest speakers and a performance. Supported by Lewisham Arts Service.
Lewisham Carers Centre, 11am–3.30pm, free, tel: 020 8699 8686, www.carers.org/local/london/lewisham.
Monday 29 October
Tracing your Caribbean Roots
Getting you started tracing your Caribbean family history. Online sources for finding your Caribbean roots will be available. A short film from Lorna Jackson (small fry productions) of young people using our archives will be screened at 2pm.
Lewisham Library, 2pm-4pm, free, tel: 020 8297 0682,
local.studies@lewisham.gov.uk.
Back to top
 |
Four Kornerz Gonna Make It, Hackney BHM |
Hackney
Sat Sep 29
Carnival Explosion –Black History Month Launch
A recognized blend of visual arts (lights, costume and exhibition), music (Soca, Calypso and Steel Pan), digital arts and masquerading. Developed by Hackney Carnival Cluster.
Hackney Town Hall, 2pm, free, tel: 020 8356 3554,
www.hackney.gov.uk/black-history-month.
Wed Oct 3
Poetry & Rap Workshop
A Poetry and rap workshop with the company ‘Apples and Snakes’. Exercise your rapping techniques with this great workout.
Hackney Central Library, 6pm-8pm, free, tel: 020 8356 2542, www.hackney.gov.uk/libraries.
Thu Oct 4 – Fri 30 Nov
Four Corners Exhibition: Video Portraits of Vocal Caribbean Elders
A joint project between the Hackney Caribbean Elderly Organisation, theNational Portrait Gallery and Sutton House. Films produced by Ken Faro. Photographs by Othello de Souza Hartley.
The National Trust Sutton House, 12pm-4.30pm, free, tel: 020 8986 2264, ww.hackney.gov.uk
Thu Oct 4
I Have A Dream
An exhibition of themed carnival costumes featured at the Notting Hill Carnival by Tropical Isles Carnival Group. A tribute to Martin Luther King Jr.
Stoke Newington Library, 6pm–8pm, free, tel: 020 8356 5231,
www.hackney.gov/libraries.
Thu Oct 4
Enslavement, Resistance and Truth 2007
Screening of the groundbreaking ‘Maafa Truth 2007’ documentary followed by Question and answer session with director, Toyin Agbetu. Presented by Ligali.
Hackney Museum, 4.30pm-8pm, free, tel: 020 8356 3500, www.hackney.gov.uk.
Fri 5 Oct
‘London is the Place for Me’ Exhibition
New culturally-diverse art space, Rivington Place, will open with a group exhibition of film and photography, and a programme of events that explore the experiences of people coming to the UK from around the world. Jointly curated by Autograph ABP and inIVA.
Rivington Place, 10am-6pm, free,
tel: 020 7729 9200,
www.autograph-abp.co.uk,
www.iniva.org.
Sat Oct 6 – Sat 20 Oct
Rio Cineman Black History Month
A programme of films with accompanying talks and performances, celebrating the achievements and uncovering the histories of the black community. Includes a selection of free screenings for primary and secondary schools and a free screening for over 60s and carers.
Rio Cinema, times and tickets vary, tel: 020 7241 9410,
www.riocinema.org.uk.
 |
Hackney: Muyiwa |
Sat 6 Oct
‘London is the Place for Me’ – Dinu Li Talk
Manchester-based photographer, Dinu Li, talks about his series ‘Press the Star, Then
Say Hello’, shown for the first time as part of this exhibition. Presented by Autograph ABP.
Rivington Place, 3pm-4pm, free,
tel: 020 7729 9200,
www.autograph-abp.co.uk,
www.iniva.org.
Fri 12 Oct & Fri 19 Oct
‘London is the Place for Me’ - Portrait Postcards
Members of Hackney’s Caribbean and African communities will be invited to share stories of life as arrivals in London. Participants can have their own portrait postcard taken in front of a backdrop of their choice – informed by their dreams for life in the capital.
Rivington Place, 12pm-6pm, free,
tel: 020 7729 9616,
www.autograph-abp.co.uk,
www.iniva.org.
Thu Oct 11
Get Up & Dance
Tropical Isles Dance and Music Ensemble entertains with Soca and Bashment rhythms and dance moves.
Stoke Newington Library, 6pm-8.30pm, free, tel: 020 8356 5231, www.hackney.gov/libraries.
Thu Oct 11
Stereo-Hype: With Freedom In Mind
An opportunity for mental health professionals and community members to exchange and explore ideas around mental well-being through art-based activities like poetry, music and drama. Presented by Mellow East London and the City Mental Health Trust. Event in partnership with Social Action for Health.
Chats Palace, 7pm-10pm, free, tel: 020 8533 0227, www.chatspalace.com.
Sat Oct 13 – Sun Nov 18
Blanc Noir
A visual art exhibition focused on how black culture and style is no longer seen as ‘exotic’, but is now meshed within the mainstream. Involves black and white artists working with a range of media.
Transition Gallery, 12pm-6pm, free, tel: 020 7254 4202,
www.transitiongallery.co.uk
Tue Oct 16 – Sat Oct 20
The Gospel According To Broadway
The Harlem Gospel Ensemble, London Community Gospel Choir and America’s Michael Singers team up with the BBC Concert Orchestra to perform the Greatest Hits of African American Sacred Music.
Hackney Empire Theatre, 7.30pm, Adults £20 Concessions £17.50,
tel: 020 8985 2424,
www.hackneyempire.co.uk
Mon Oct 22 – Thu Oct 25
Loaded Lyrics
Performance poetry and music workshops for 11 to 16 year-olds. Calling all musicians, rappers, singers, poets and MCs. Learn to write your own rhymes in rap, poetry or song, and learn about the black history of lyrical storytelling. Celebrate Black History Month and Youth Music Week.
Hoxton Hall, 3pm–6pm, free, tel: 020 7684 0060, www.hoxtonhall.co.uk
Tue Oct 23
Freedom Spirit
Inspired by the spirit of the soul of enslaved Africans, come and express your creative writing skills and improvise your creative visions using drama in this multi active Ujamaa Arts workshop.
Hackney Museum, 1pm-4pm, free, tel; 020 8356 3500,
www.hackney.gov.uk
Tue Oct 23
African Rhythm
A musical performance featuring African rhythms and Caribbean music, with Joe and Emil.
Clapton Library, 2pm-3pm, free,
tel: 020 8356 1620,
www.hackney.gov.uk/libraries
Thu Oct 25
African & Caribbean Games
Games Workshops with African board games like Oware and Dominoes from the Caribbean.
Clapton Library, 2pm-3pm, free,
tel: 020 8356 1620,
www.hackney.gov.uk/libraries
Thu Oct 25
Who Inspires You?
A fun drawing workshop for families – part of the Campaign for Drawing. Come and draw someone who inspires you. Make sure you bring their picture.
Hackney Museum, 2pm-4pm, free, tel: 020 8356 3500,
www.hackney.gov.uk.
Thu Oct 25
The Great Black History Month Quiz
Take part in an information-packed quiz event for all the family. Prizes include a junior trophy (under 17s) and senior trophy (adults over 17), book tokens and DVDs. Have fun, win prizes and learn about Black history.
E-mail, text or call with your name, address and age to enter.
Presented by The Oral History Project, Hackney Museum, 5.30-8pm, free, tel: 07768 276 398,
www.hackney.gov.uk,
blakstok@aol.com, oralstory@yahoo.co.uk.
Thu Oct 25
African & Caribbean Dance Extravaganza
The exciting finale to workshops held at the Sharp End and Wayside Community Centre. Caribbean Quadrilles and African Dance with audience participation. Find out about dance history and costume design and taste traditional food.
The Sharp End, 10am-1pm, free,
tel: 020 7923 8690,
www.inshapehackney.org.uk
Thu 25 Oct
London Is The Place For Me: Conversations In The Front Room
Launch of The Front Room website, inspired by the work of Michael McMillan’s ‘The West Indian Front Room’. People are invited to visit the Front Room Project space to share stories and have their portraits taken with an object dear to their heart and homeland.
Rivington Place, 6pm-8pm, free,
tel: 020 7729 9200, www.autograph-abp.co.uk,
www.iniva.org.
Fri Oct 26
Speaking Out
A drama developed and performed by a group of Hackney elders from reasoning’s and writing on the theme of abolition. Told through spirituals, narrative, drama and shadow play. Presented by the Cultural Exchange Through Theatre in Education.
The National Trust Sutton House, 2pm – 3.15pm, free, tel: 020 8986 2264, www.hackney.gov.uk.
Sat Oct 27
Connecting Histories: Family Fun Day
A day for families to learn together about Black history and culture through arts, dance, education, fashion, film, food and literature. Presented by Sam Uriah Morris Society.
Morley Hall, 10am-5pm, Adults £3, Under-18’s £1, tel: 07961 148 568.
Sat Oct 27
Black Stories From The Web
Sign up and get your story online.
Clapton Library, 2pm-3pm, free,
tel: 020 8356 1620,
www.hackney.gov.uk/libraries.
Sat Oct 27
Freedom Spirit Fashion
Come and weave your magic and be part of traditional African dress, fashion and make-up. Create beautiful costume designs through the eyes of theatre and performance.
Hackney Museum, 2pm-4pm, free, tel: 020 8356 3500,
www.hackney.gov.uk
Sat Oct 27 - Sun Nov 4
Ghanaian Film Festival
A week-long film festival run and arranged as a partnership between Afford, ScreenStation, The Arcola Theatre, Rio Cinema, WORLDwrite, Academy of Screen Arts and Ananse International Film Festival.
The Arcola Theatre and Rio Cinema, times vary, free – first come first served, 7241 9410,
www.riocinema.org.uk.
Wed Oct 31
Africa’s Greatest Resource
African Diaries in Focus stages a film documentary to mark the bicentenary of the abolition of the slave trade. Presented by Steve Taylor.
Hackney Central Library, 6pm–8.30pm, free, tel: 020 8356 2542, www.hackney.gov.uk/libraries.
Back to top
Hammersmith
Sat 13 Oct
As the American War of Independence reaches its climax, a plantation slave and a British naval officer embark on an epic journey in search of freedom. Divided by barriers of race but united in their ambitions for equality, their convictions will change attitudes towards slavery forever. From the deep south of America to the scorched earth of West Africa, Rough Crossings is a compelling true story that marks the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade in the British Empire.
Lyric Hammersmith, 7.30pm, £10-£27, tel: 08700 500 511, enquiries@lyric.co.uk,
www.lyric.co.uk.
Sat 3 Nov
Black British Heritage Event
Hammersmith Town Hall, 7pm, free, tel: 020 7753 2135, www.ibhf.gov.uk.
Fri 23 Nov
Black to the Future
Hammersmith Town Hall, 7.30pm, free, tel: 020 7753 2135,
www.ibhf.gov.uk.
Back to top
Haringey
Mon 1 Oct
Transatlantic Enslavement: What really happened?
Seminar No 1. This presentation by Robin Walker addresses the question, what was West Africa like before the slave trade? Mr Walker demonstrates that Europeans held detailed information on the Kingdom of Kongo, the Benin Empire, the Ashanti Empire, and the Borno Empire.
Marcus Garvey Library, 12pm-5pm, free, tel: 020 8489 5309, www.haringey.gov.uk.
Wed 3 Oct
Slavery in the 21st Century
An introduction by Anti-Slavery International. A detailed presentation on modern
forms of slavery by Education Officer Michaela Alfred-Kamara, from the leading campaigners Anti-Slavery International.
Marcus Garvey Library, 10am, free, tel: 020 8489 5309, www.haringey.gov.uk.
Sat 6 Oct
African drumming and singing
A family workshop facilitated by Movement Angol. Movement Angol are one of Britain’s leading dance companies. They utilise the language of African dance as the basis for movement development and artistic expression.
Marcus Garvey Library, 5pm-6pm, free, tel: 020 8489 5309, www.haringey.gov.uk.
Tue 9 Oct
Free At Last: The Beginning of the End of Slavery
An interactive PowerPoint presentation based on a three-part series made by producer Colin Grant for the BBC World Service; posing the question, ‘What did Black people do to bring about the end of Slavery?
Marcus Garvey Library, 7pm-8.30pm, free, tel: 020 8489 5309, www.haringey.gov.uk.
Wed 10 Oct
Black History Month: Official Haringey Launch
The focus is on the 200th anniversary of the Act of Parliament to abolish the transatlantic slave trade. Make it mean something to you: join Mayor of Haringey Cllr Sheik Thompson in launching this year’s programme of events, including the exhibitions Links & Liberty and Story Interrupted at Bruce Castle Museum. Speakers from 6.30pm, a choir and a specially commissioned trumpet solo from top jazz 2007 Mobo Award nominee Byron Wallen.
Bruce Castle Museum, 6pm-8.30pm, free, tel: 020 8808 8772,
www.haringey.gov.uk.
Fri 12 Oct
An Evening with Paul Crooks
Paul Crooks is the acclaimed author of Ancestors. He spent 20 years successfully tracing his roots 200 years back to West Africa. Now a recognized expert in Black genealogy, Mr Crooks will demonstrate with documentation how he traced his roots, and could encourage you to do similarly.
Marcus Garvey Library, 7am-8.30am, free, tel: 020 8489 5309, www.haringey.gov.uk.
Mon 15 Oct
Trans-Atlantic Enslavement: What Really Happened?
Seminar 3. This presentation by Robin Walker addresses the key questions: What did the enslaved peoples do to free themselves? The documents show that enslaved people resisted being captured, rebelled on the slave ships, rebelled on the plantations, and founded all African States in the Western Hemisphere.
Marcus Garvey Library, 7pm-9pm, free, tel: 020 8489 5309,
www.haringey.gov.uk.
Wed 17 Oct
The Poetry of Maya Angelou
Enjoy Jamaican Quadrille dance performed by Patsy Scott and her group. Join Haringey University of the Third Age (U3A) to read your favourite Maya Angelou poetry or prose. Guest poet Abe Gibson will read ‘And Still I Rise’.
Marcus Garvey Library, 2pm-4pm, free, tel: 020 8489 5309,
www.haringey.gov.uk.
Fri 19 Oct
Check-Out the Beat
Music and dance, featuring film clips from rare recordings and archival footage from late 1950s/60s: brilliant artists like Sammy Davis Jr, Billy Eckstine, Nat King Cole, and Della Rose. Refreshments will be provided.
Woodside Day Centre, 1pm, free, tel: 020 8888 5245,
www.haringey.gov.uk.
Mon 22 Oct – Wed 31 Oct
Exhibition: Campaigning against Slavery, from the 18th to the 21st Century
An exhibition by Anti-Slavery International to take you on a journey from the transatlantic slave trade through to slavery in contemporary society. It also looks at how contemporary forms of slavery have been challenged through popular campaigns and by the development of international standards to prohibit them.
Wood Green Central Library, library opening times, tel: 020 8489 2780, www.haringey.gov.uk.
Fri 26 Oct
Campaign Collage
An Activity for families with children. Discover how ordinary people demonstrated against the Slave Trade and use a range of materials to produce your own campaign leaflet.
Bruce Castle Museum, 2pm-4pm, free, tel: 020 8808 8772,
www.haringey.gov.uk
Mon 29 Oct
Transatlantic Enslavement: What really happened?
Africa after the Slave Trade: Towards the Modern Crises
Seminar 5. This presentation by Robin Walker addresses the key question: What legacy has the Slave Trade left for modern Africa? Mr Walker demonstrates that Africa continues to suffer an unacknowledged but devastating legacy caused by the Slave Trade that affects contemporary politics, economics, and social relations.
Marcus Garvey Library, 7pm-9pm, free, tel: 020 8808 8772,
www.haringey.gov.uk
Back to top
Harrow
Tue 18 Sep
Minute silence for victims of the Maafa
A minute silence for the victims of the Maafa (African Holocaust) to be observed throughout the borough called for by the Black History Month Advisory Group 2007.
London Borough of Hackney, 11am, free, tel: 07940 640 248, liontutorials@hotmail.co.uk.
Tue 18 Sep
Launch of BHM 2007
Scene setting for the Black History Season 2007 in the presence of the Mayor, the Worshipful Cllr Jean Lammiman and the Alderman Keith Toms organised by the Black History Month Advisory Group 2007
Council Chamber, Harrow Civic Centre, 3.30pm-5.30pm, free, tel: 07940 640 248, liontutorials@hotmail.co.uk.
Mon 1 October – Wed 31 Oct
Exhibition of African Abolitionists
An educational tool for the community, the exhibition in Wealdstone Library during opening hours, will feature profiles of Great African Abolitionists such as Paul Bogle, Toussaint L’Ouverture, Sam Sharpe, Nana (Nanny of the Maroons). Focusing on their great achievements will help dispel many of the myths and distortions about the Abolition of the Slave Trade. Related books, resources and book lists will be on display including the presentation made at the launch of BHM 2007.
Wealdstone Library, day-time, free, tel: 07940 640 248, ann.copus@harrow.gov.uk, liontutorials@hotmail.co.uk,
www.freewebs.com.
Wed 24 Oct
Abolition Truths
Panel-led discussion and Q&A session, focusing on the role of African freedom fighters and Abolitionists Panellists Dr Lez Henry , Nu-Beyond and from New African Perspective Kwaku, Black Music Congress and Ms Serwah, BTWSC. Specially composed Abolition pieces: Music by Africanus Britanicus featuring HKB Finn & Co and poem by teenager Stefan Tetsola.
Council Chamber, 6.30pm-8.30pm, free, tel: 020 8450 5987,
info@btwsc.com, www.btwsc.com.
Fri 26 Oct
Hidden Truths About the Transatlantic Trade and Its Abolition
Harrow Anti-Racist Alliance drama to raise awareness of the African resistance to the Transatlantic Slave Trade focusing on resistance in Africa to enslavement, in the ships on the journey across the sea and in the countries where the slaves were forced to work.
Traveller’s Studio, 7pm- 9pm, free, tel: 020 8422 4849, hara@antiracistalliance.org.uk, baldev.sharma@virgin.net.
Sat 27 Oct
Exhibition, Music and Talks
Harrow African Caribbean Association (HACAS) will focus on the transatlantic slave trade and its abolition in 1807 and the abolition of slavery throughout the British colonies in 1833. It will also highlight the ‘apprentice’ system which followed until 1838. Event will include Black poetry, a lecture on Abolition, drama on Olaudah Equiano and Mary Prince, folk songs, gospel songs, dance and Caribbean food and refreshments.
Holy Trinity Church, 12pm-6pm, free, tel: 020 8930 9420,
yvonnechis@aol.com.
Tue 30 Oct
yvonnechis@aol.com
An exposé of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and a focus on the role of women in ending the Trade through a presentation and interactive storytelling based on the impact of Queen Nzingha, Mary Prince and Elizabeth Heyrick. Event organised by two members of The African SANG, IJAPA and The A-Connexion’s Global Village Prizes for the BHM 2006 competition will be given during the event.
Council Chamber, 6pm-9pm, free, tel: 020 8427 5536, theafricansang@yahoo.co.uk.
Back to top
Hampstead
Sat 6 Oct
Poetry & Words of Protest: Equanio to the Present Day
‘New Nation Rising, A 21st Century Symphony’ has been recorded by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and is a ground-breaking work, that employs the RPO with two choirs, solo singers, a rapper and dhol drummers in an epic musical story celebrating London’s thousand-year history. Shirley J. Thompson sees no boundaries in musical styles and fuses contemporary orchestral classical with Gospel and African drumming styles, exhibiting supreme craftsmanship.’
Keats House, 1.30pm-4pm, £10 (includes a glass of wine),
tel: 020 7332 3820,
ask.ima@cityoflondon.gov.uk.
Back to top
Horniman Museum
Thu 25 Oct
Taslim Martin Unveils ‘Blue Earth’
African artist Taslim Martin is to unveil a poignant sculpture ‘Blue Earth 1807-2007’ to commemorate the Bicentenary of the Parliamentary Abolition of Transatlantic Slavery. From Thursday 25th October 2007 at the Horniman Museum, Blue Earth will be a major new permanent addition to the museum’s African Worlds Gallery measuring some 1.2 metres in diameter. Ahead of this, there will be a number of other commemorative events including free music in September and a series of ‘Thursday Lates’ featuring; an artist’s discussion, lecture and debate on the subject of slavery.
Horniman Museum, 11am, free,
tel: 020 8699 1872,
www.horniman.ac.uk.
Back to top
Islington
Thu 4 Oct
Community Leadership
An inspirational seminar led by Police Constable Gamal Turawa, discussing the importance of effective community leadership. Everyone with a community-focused role is invited to attend this event. Refreshments provided. A short film, ‘Investigating Freedom’ will be screened. It was developed by the British Museum and young people and is based on the abolition of slavery.
Islington Town Hall, 6pm-8.30pm, free, tel: 020 7527 5001, info@islington.gov.uk,
www.islington.gov.uk/contact.
Thu 4 Oct – Mon 31 Dec
Exhibition - From slave boy to African national hero
An exhibition on the life, work and legacy of Samuel Ajayi Crowther, a freed slave, educated in Islington, who became Africa’s first Black Anglican bishop.
Islington Local History Centre, day-time, free, tel: 020 7527 5001, info@islington.gov.uk,
www.islington.gov.uk/contact.
Sat 6 Oct
Freedom Festival
Freedom Fest is the flagship event of Islington’s Black History Month. Held in the picturesque Highbury Fields, it is a tantalising mix for the whole family. From music to face-painting, right through to delicious food and ethnic clothes for sale, you be entertained!
Highbury Fields, 12pm-4pm, free, tel: 020 7527 5001,
info@islington.gov.uk,
www.islington.gov.uk/contact.
Mon 8 Oct
Freedom is a Winner!
Writing workshops and competition for young people aged five-18 led by Alex Pascall OBE (see right). Young people will be given encouragement and advice on writing essays, short stories or poems, which will form part of a special anthology on the experiences of young people in Islington.
Barnsbury Complex, 4pm-6pm, free, tel: 07963 747 755,
info@islington.gov.uk,
www.islington.gov.uk.
Wed 24 Oct
An Audience with Robert Taylor
Chaired by renowned photographer Robert Taylor, with guest speakers Elsie Owusu OBE, Dr Rob Berkeley, Shirley J. Thompson, Edwin Atiegoba-Bello and Chief Inspector Dalton McConney MBE, QPM (Rtd).
Islington Town Hall, 6pm-8.30pm, free, tel: 020 7527 5001, info@islington.gov.uk,
www.islington.gov.uk/contact.
Tue 30 Oct
Food Fayre Exhibition
Join us in celebrating the journey to freedom, with music, poetry and speeches, helping us to reflect on the past and move into the future with greater energy and resolve. Musical performances, dramatic expressions, a film excerpt, and guest speakers, including Dr Hakim Adi, founding member of the Black and Asian Studies Association; Nkosinathi Biko - the son of Steve Biko and activist in his own right; and Darcus Howe – writer and social commentator best known for the Channel 4 programme “Devil’s Advocate”. And afterwards, you can experience exotic cuisine from around the world.
Islington Town Centre, 2pm–4pm, free, tel: 020 7527 5001, info@islington.gov.uk,
www.islington.gov.uk/contact.
Back to top
 |
Kingston: Sakoba Bode Lawal |
Kingston
Thu 4 Oct
Cesar Picton, the slave, merchant and gentlemen
When he was six years old, Cesar Picton was brought to Kingston from Senegal, became a servant in the household of an aristocratic family and ended up a wealthy gentleman. Howard Benge from Kingston Museum and Heritage Service will be exploring Picton’s extraordinary journey, looking at national and international events that surrounded his life.
Bradbury Active Age Centre, 2.30pm, free, tel: 020 8549 1230,
www.kingston.gov.uk,
www.kingstonrec.org.
Fri 6 Oct
SAFAR – A Musical Journey
A celebration of the 60th anniversary of Indian Independence with a concert. Accompanied by teams of musicians from the UK.
Shrewsbury House School, 7.30pm, free, tel: 08700 600 100,
www.kingston.gov.uk,
www.kingstonrec.org.
Sat 20 Oct
Black Umfolosi Five
The delightful world-renowned singing and dance ambassadors from Zimbabwe return to Kingston following their sell-out performance during last year’s Festival of the Voice. Back due to popular demand while on another UK tour, their delightful melodic harmonies and high-energy ‘gum-boots’ dance routines promise another fun-filled, foot-stomping evening for all the family to enjoy. Simply unmissable!
Shrewsbury House School, 7.30pm, free, tel: 08700 600 100,
www.kingston.gov.uk,
www.kingstonrec.org.
Thu 25 Oct
Steve Biko – 30 Years On
Local resident Wendy Woods will give a talk about her life in 1970s apartheid South Africa and the events that led to the death of Steve Biko.
Bradbury Centre, 7pm, free, tel: 020 8549 1230, bradburycentre@btconnect.com.
Fri 26 Oct
‘A Home From Home’ By George Alagiah
Unity Week is a week of workshops and events for staff and students at Kingston University, spanning diversity and equality areas of Race, Age, Faith, Disability, Gender and Sexuality.
Kingston University, 7pm-9pm, £8-£10, tel: 020 8546 7592,
www.kingston.ac.uk.
Fri 23 Nov
Equiano’s Cup
Kingston Connexions in partnership with MeWe are organising a special one off performance of the award winning play ‘Equino’s Cup’ performed by a multi cultural cast, the MeWe Youth Theatre Company. This amazing story is set in two time periods and takes a fresh and unforgettable look at slavery. Created for young people by young people.
The Arthur Cotterall Theatre, 2pm, free, tel: 020 8974 6641, joyiruo@connexions-southlondon.org.uk.
Back to top
Lambeth
Sun 30 Sep
Black History Month Launch Event
Lambeth Libraries invite you to join us for the official launch of Black History Month. The afternoon will be hosted by Jason Hoyte of Accapella and will be a celebration of black literature and arts – a fantastic evening including The Accapella Singers, Bianca Rose, poetry performance from Sans-culotte and much more.
Nettlefold Hall, 2pm, free,
tel: 020 7926 0758,
libraries@lambeth.gov.uk.
Thu 4 Oct
Jan Blake Storytelling
Lambeth Libraries and Spread the Word have come together to present internationally acclaimed storyteller, Jan Blake. This performance is free and open to everyone – A showcase from the finest in the in the craft of storytelling.
Nettlefold Hall, 7pm-8pm, free,
tel: 020 7926 0758,
libraries@lambeth.gov.uk.
Fri 5 Oct – Sun 7 Oct
Film Screening Weekender
A full weekend of film screenings with Q &A sessions: Friday starts the weekend with Underexposed - a documentary by Alrick Riley on the tribulations of Britain’s first generation of black TV and film stars, forgotten by the mainstream. On Saturday we screen African Diaries, Steve Taylor’s moving documentary on the abolition of the slave trade and Sierra Leone, with a director Q&A, and on Sunday the weekend comes to a close with the showing of Dream to change the world: the life and work of John la Rose – Q&A with Dr Roxy Harris, Errol Lloyd and Prof. Ann Pheonix.
Nettlefold Hall, 7pm onwards, £3,
tel: 020 7926 8070, libraries@lambeth.gov.uk.
Mon 8 Oct
Movement Angol Drum and Dance workshop
Stunning contemporary dance rooted in Africa – Movement Angol Dance Company will be running a workshop on Drum and Dance. This is a real opportunity to work with top professionals and is open to all ages/levels. Limited Places – this is another Black History Month highlight!
West Norwood Library, 4pm, free,
tel: 020 7926 8092, libraries@lambeth.gov.uk.
Wed 10 Oct
Slave Narratives Revisited by Ed Shockley
Don’t miss an opportunity to catch this inspiring play visiting from Philadelphia, USA - Utilising the actual words of the world’s dispossessed, this tour de force performance celebrates the best in humanity as revealed in the worst of times.
Brixton Library, 7pm, free,
tel: 020 7926 1056,
libraries@lambeth.gov.uk.
Thu 11 Oct
Black History Motivational Event
Do you want to find employment, education or training? This is an event for young people to hear from leading Black professionals about how they achieved their career ambitions. Workshops, stalls and Personal Advisors will be available all afternoon along with entertainment and celebrity guests.
Lambeth Town Hall, 1pm, free,
tel: 020 7926 6073, libraries@lambeth.gov.uk.
Thu 18 Oct
Black people and the Media with Lionel Morrison and Dotun Adebayo
BBC presenter Dotun Adebayo will be joined by Lionel Morrison, Author of A Century of Black Journalism in Britain, to discuss black influence in and on Britain’s media. Join them, looking back to plot the way forward.
Streatham Library, 7pm, free,
tel: 020 7926 6768, libraries@lambeth.gov.uk.
Fri 19 Oct
Sexual Attraction Revealed with Nicole Moore
Sexual Attraction Revealed is a collection of poetry and autobiographical writing from a diverse group of black and mixed-race women. The writers tell their narratives, presenting their views in passionate, intelligent, humorous, strong, reflective and spiritual voices.
Brixton Library, 7pm, free,
tel: 020 7926 1056, libraries@lambeth.gov.uk.
Mon 22 Oct
A Magical Meeting - An Evening of Monodrama
A British man of African descent has startling experiences in the continent of his ancestry. The evening will also feature performance poetry, and end with a reading from the novel Intriguing Laughter, by Reginald Ofodile.
Nettlefold Hall, 7pm, free,
tel: 020 7926 8070, libraries@lambeth.gov.uk.
Fri 26 Oct
‘In the Spirit of our Ancestors’
Lambeth Integrated Youth Services and Lambeth Libraries bring you a fantastic evening for the poet within. Prizewinners of the Black History Month Poetry Competition will be presented with awards and read their winning entries. The event will be rounded off with the Performance Poet and African Storyteller Uzoamaka Okafor-Obi.
Nettlefold Hall, 7pm, free,
tel: 020 7926 8070, libraries@lambeth.gov.uk.
Sat 27 Oct
Black Victims of the Nazi’s with Nia Reynolds
Black Victims of the Nazis reveals, in words and pictures, a compelling history of the experience of people of African descent under Hitler’s odious Nazi regime, which regarded Black people as ‘sub-human’. In this lively and interesting presentation, author Nia Reynolds uncovers a largely untold aspect of twentieth century world history.
Brixton Library, 6.30pm, free,
tel: 020 7926 1056, libraries@lambeth.gov.uk,
www.blackstockphotos.com.
Tue 30 Oct
The Inaugural Lambeth Black History Lecture: Challenges to Slavery
Historian, archivist and Lambeth resident Gemma Romain will give the first Lambeth Black History Lecture in the Bicentenary year on the subject of how enslaved people of African heritage in the Caribbean challenged their enslavement. Gemma will be discussing her current research that explores the way in which enslaved people in Grenada used the court system during the ‘apprenticeship period’ of 1834-1838.
Minet Library, 7pm, free,
tel: 020 7926 6073, libraries@lambeth.gov.uk.
Wed 31 Oct
Lambeth and the Abolition – A History
Local historian and writer, Steve Martin has written a local history of the slave trade and the abolition movement in Lambeth, looking at the area’s strong links with both slavery and those opposed to it, and the interesting historical connections with West Africa and the Caribbean. Steve will launch the publication of this new book with a short talk and readings.
Brixton Library, 7pm, free,
tel: 020 7926 1056, libraries@lambeth.gov.uk.
 |
Mayor of London, Kulture2culture: Georgina Harley Smith |
Mayor of London
Sat 18 Nov & Sun 19 Nov
Fashion Weekend at the V&A: Spotlight on London’s Black Designers at Kulture2Couture
A weekend of fashion shows, workshops, makeovers, exhibits and seminars celebrating the work of London’s black fashion designers, is taking place at the V &A on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 November. Kulture2Couture (K2C) is part of the Mayor of London’s Black History Season. A range of free workshops, seminars and master classes will be on offer to all aspiring designers, make-up artists and anyone who would like greater insight into the industry. UK cosmetics firm, Sleek International will also be holding makeover master-classes throughout the day.
V&A Museum, 11am-6pm, free, tel: 020 7942 22 11, bookings.office@vam.ac.uk,
www.kulture2couture.com.
Back to top
Next Page >> |
© 2008 BHM |
