We are almost halfway through Black History Month in the UK, but there are still plenty of great events to attend. Whether you like music or poetry, visual art or film, one of these seven events is sure to give you the perfect opportunity to celebrate black culture — and have a great time.
1. 1:54 Contemporary African Art Fair
15-18 Oct 2015 | London
In only its third year, this increasingly popular show will feature 36 exhibitors representing more than 150 contemporary artists from Africa and the African diaspora. Attendees will enjoy a wide range of contemporary African art in mediums including painting, sculpture, photography and installation. More details here.
2. Where do you turn for inspiration?
19 Oct 2015 | Manchester
Talawa Theatre Company has teamed up with the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester to ask playwrights and theatre-makers: What inspires you? Talawa’s past and future writers, along with Talawa’s Artistic Director Michael Buffong, will share their inspirations. Join them in a discussion of Britain’s artistic future. More details here.
3. What statement is your hair making?
21 Oct 2015 | London
Valley Fontaine will host a panel debate at the BBC asking this very question. The panel will consider perceptions on styles—from braids and weaves to afros and locs. This talk forms part of the BBC’s Black and Asian Forums (BBAF) Black History Month celebrations. More details here.
4. Divided by Race: United by War and Peace
23 Oct 2015 | London
This powerful documentary about race relations in Britain during and after the Second World War will be screened by the New Black Film Collective. The documentary includes the testimonies of West Indian and African men and women who volunteered to join the war effort and soon afterwards returned to live in Britain. More details here.
5. Somali Week Festival Launch
23 Oct 2015 | London
This event launches a weeklong exploration of Somali arts and culture. In the heart of London, attendees will hear from a number of highly accomplished guests including Asha-Luul Mohamud, one of the leading Somali-language poets in the UK. More details here.
6. An Audience with Benjamin Zephaniah
24 Oct 2015 | Tees Valley
The only living poet in the vote for the nation’s top 10 favourite poets will speak firsthand about his career, his poetry and much more. Come listen to and question the man who stated, “I am against Black History Month… Our history needs to become part of mainstream education.” More details here.
7. UK Choir Fest 2015
24 Oct 2015 | London
Join the five best gospel choirs in the UK for a night of music and pure joy. With amazing guest choir directors and a tribute to Walter Hawkins, this is sure to be a delightful and memorable night. More details here.
