What we’re about
We are the Lovers of Black Theatre, a diverse group of theatre goers who are united around our shared passion: Black theatre productions.
We support all forms of theatre but we specialise in Black British theatre, predominantly in London, but also throughout the UK.
After each production, we have a group discussion to review the production through the lens of our own life experiences.
Sometimes these exchanges can get lively, but our aim is to create a safe space where all views are welcomed. This is the best part, because we learn more about our fellow members in a deep and meaningful way. Many friendships have been formed during these exchanges, and we hope to form many more in the future.
With this in mind, we ask that members come prepared to engage in our conversations about the plays. Our group discussions often include a panel of members of the cast of the production as well as the writers and producers when we can get hold of them.
Like the productions, which touch on all aspects of race, sexual orientation, gender and religion, our members belong to all races, sexual orientation, religions, genders or non-gender. Our shared experiences and discussions are all the richer, informative and life affirming because of this eclectic mix.
Sincerely,
Co Organisers of LOBT
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Romeo and JulietTheatre Royal Stratford East, London
A thrilling tale of young love, family and loyalty. Weaving together Shakespeare's timeless words with music and dance, set against the east London skyline, this contemporary twist on the classic tale promises to be an unforgettable summer's night out.
In partnership with Sadler's Wells, this large-scale production features young artists and our local community alongside professional performers.
Presented by Stratford East and Sadler's Wells. (Theatre Royal Stratford East)
Buy your ticket on this link: Romeo & Juliet - Black Power DeskBrixton House, London
An Original Musical, World Premiere.
1970s London.
The streets awash with a fever of political unrest, the rhythm of the sound system culture is birthing a new era of soulful lover’s rock, fusing RnB and reggae, amidst the covert Black Power Desk operations of New Scotland Yard. As tensions rise, the community rallies together to stand against injustices and racial divide.
“The day you were born Black was the day politics was made your thing.”
~~BLACK~~ POWER ~~DESK~~ is a powerful reimagining and exploration of what it means to love and fight for freedom. In an often male-dominated world, two sisters, Celia and Dina – both rooted in self-empowerment and fiercely committed to their community, both loyal and motivated by love – are divided by grief and radical politics.
A moving story of sisters who need to reconnect for the sake of their community. But will the fight for their community be worth the damage to their sisterhood?
Inspired by the historic Mangrove Nine and other influential activists and brought to life by an original score performed by a live three-piece band, ~~BLACK~~ POWER ~~DESK~~ is a musical soundtrack charting a fiercely emotive and politically charged era of often overlooked British history for today’s generation. At a time of the rise of British Black Panthers, the onset of the Immigration Act 1971, the emergence of Black business ownership and the hails of a generation living through the racial tensions of Great Britain.
“Don’t let it be for nothing so breathe and don’t ask permission.”
~~BLACK~~ POWER ~~DESK~~ (Brixton House)
#### Content warnings
Strong language, racialised slurs, potential depiction of violence, suggested sexual assault.Buy tickets on this link: Book Online | Brixton House
- The Harder They ComeTheatre Royal Stratford East, London
Based on the cult classic film that brought reggae to the world, THE HARDER THEY COME tells the story of Ivan, an aspiring singer who arrives in Kingston, Jamaica, determined to live out his dreams on his own terms and make it as a music superstar.
After cutting a record deal with a manipulative music mogul, Ivan learns that the game is rigged and becomes increasingly defiant. As his star rises, he finds himself topping the charts and the most-wanted list of criminals.
This unmissable show transports audiences to 1970s Jamaica and asks us the question: "What is the personal cost of fighting against systemic injustice?"
This staging of the seminal film features a sensational soundtrack with brand new songs plus many of Jimmy Cliff's hits including “You Can Get It If You Really Want” and "Many Rivers to Cross”. (Theatre Royal Stratford East)
A UK premiere adapted for the stage by Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize winner Suzan-Lori Parks and directed by Olivier Award-winner Matthew Xia (Tambo & Bones, Skeleton Crew).
Purchase your ticket on the link. The Harder They Come
