Talawa’s series of play readings showcasing the best in new Black British writing.

10 May – Walking To Obama

Written by Grant Buchanan Marshall
Directed by Monique Sterling

A passionate evocation of Black struggle in the Southern states, Walking To Obama vividly recaptures pre-civil rights America. A land investor hatches a brutal scheme in an epic fight over land that has been in Merla Parker’s family for generations. Falsely accused of the battery of her husband, Merla is thrown into prison. Exposed to the worst depravities, she struggles to maintain her dignity, her family and the land.

22 June – Take Me 2 Manhattan

Written by Maxine Quintyne-Kolaru
Directed by Erica Miller

Ailleen struggles to cope with her alcoholic mother and the trauma caused by her absent brother. With the unexpected return of her Uncle Silco from prison and her ill-fated 16th birthday looming, the reality of Ailleen’s world comes crashing in on her. Only the unconventional love of Ryan and refuge in the local Chicken Shop that he runs can make the reality of her grim world bearable.

28 July – House Of Zerquera

Written by Atiha Sen Gupta
Directed by Anthonette Isioma

House Of Zerquera takes a nostalgic look at Cuba and communism. Zerquera is a staunch Cuban communist and revolutionary. Struggling to hold on to his grand house, he is forced to rent rooms to tourists. However, his son is eager to leave Cuba and illegally brings a British Asian girl to stay to make a quick buck. Her romantic search for the ideals of the revolution exposes the dark sides of Zerquera, Cuba and herself.