October marks the return of Black History Month, and our town is celebrating with a whole host of exciting events that both showcase and celebrate black culture.
Here’s a brief list of the kind of things going on in Reading this Black History Month:
Enigma of Arrival / Windrush Lives: Reading Museum, June 10 to November 4
‘Enigma of Arrival’ focuses on the experience of Caribbean migration to the UK, with authoritative and richly detailed works from multiple artists.
‘Windrush Lives’ features a unique display of treasured local family keepsakes, pictures, and spoken words.
Reggae Fridays: CultureMix Arts and Music Centre, October 6, 8pm to 11:30pm
An evening of live music featuring special guest performances. The show is an intimate event where the audience can get the chance to hear some of today’s best Reggae musicians.
Windrush Generations Showcase/Caribbean Afternoon Tea: Mapp Community Centre, October 7, 1pm to 4pm
Celebrate the 75th anniversary of Windrush through photography and documentary along with an afternoon tea that will include an array of delicacies from the Caribbean.
Creative Connection Black Future Short Films Evening: Reading Biscuit Factory, October 12, 6:30pm to 8:30pm
An evening of short films featuring a wealth of new talent, along with an opportunity to network with creatives from the film industry.
Life Drawing Session: Reading Biscuit Factory, October 14, 2pm to 3:30pm
A relaxed still-life workshop using items from a traditional African Caribbean home.
Beverley Knight: The Hexagon, October 17, 7pm
A celebration tour to mark Beverley’s outstanding career. Expect a fun-filled performance of all her classic hits.
Slavery, Free Labour and Fair-Trade lecture: RISC, October 20, 7:30pm
Dr Joseph Yannielli, and two of his students, will examine slavery in Reading and early campaigns for free labour and human rights.
Book Launch and Panel Discussion with Author Nadya Ali: RISC, October 21, 7pm
The launch of Nadya Ali’s new book The Violence of Britishness, Racism, Borders and the Conditions of Citizenship.
Reading Windrush Group production of 3.3% and Starter Motor: South Street Arts Centre, October 21, 7:30pm
Two short plays focussing on the Windrush generation ‘filled with the fleeting heat of joy, hope and ‘the pulsating beat of dignity.’
Steel Band taster session with RASPO: CultureMix Arts and Music Centre, October 24, 4pm to 5pm
Taster session for children aged 8-16 to have a go at playing the steel pans with the help of friendly tutors.
Barbara the Accidental Activist: South Street Arts Centre, November 3, 7:30pm
The story of a young Ugandan woman who was thrust into the limelight after her famous bra protest on the streets of Kampala.
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