The Theatre Royal Stratford East, a prominent theatre in East London, has recently faced criticism over its decision to host a performance specifically for black audience members. Nadia Fall, the artistic director of the theatre, stood by the decision amid mixed public reactions.
The theatre is currently running Tambo & Bones, a play exploring the African-American experience. The performance, set for 5th July and designed for an “all-black-identifying audience,” has already sold out. Despite this success, the initiative has drawn some criticism.
“I understand it’s not for everyone and it’s OK to not agree,” said Fall, responding to the comments.
The Black Out performance has garnered widespread media attention since its announcement.
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One of those questioning the move was Festus Akinbusoye, Britain’s first black police and crime commissioner. He described it as a “mistake” and said it “sets a bad precedent”. Although he supports initiatives that make public spaces more diverse and encourages sharing cultural experiences, he argued against moves that could potentially create divisions.
Tambo & Bones starts next month
In a discussion about whether a white person attempting to attend the Black Out performance would be turned away, Fall clarified to BBC Radio London’s Eddie Nestor, “Absolutely not.”
She further expounded on the event’s intention, stating, “This is about one occasion where people can be together as a community. I understand that. Not everybody will.” Fall, who is Asian, acknowledged that there are moments “where it’s not about me.”
Fall also highlighted 28 other opportunities to see the show, with only one other performance sold out so far. She explained that the theatre offers a variety of performances tailored for different communities, such as those for deaf and disabled audiences, featuring access performances, relaxed performances, and British Sign Language performances.
In similar trends, the Lyric in Hammersmith is set to host a comparable event next month for its production of School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play. A Black Out night concept is not new; American playwright Jeremy O Harris introduced it during his 2019 show Slave Play on New York’s Broadway. Harris also hosted a Black Out event last year for his production of Daddy at the Almeida Theatre in Islington, North London.
