sice u m atr s thevibelm o fi y r f d a e m ture o c ra ns o liteibiti ents h v ex e
autumn 2012
www.the-drum.org.uk Box Office 0121 333 2444
welcome
The Drum is the UK’s premier Black-led arts centre dedicated to the development, presentation and celebration of African, Asian and Caribbean arts and cultural activities for the benefit of all. Our autumn 2012 season builds on the success of this summer’s Jamaica Gold theme, which saw an unprecedented achievement for The Drum with the Simmer Down Festival tripling its audience, the successful delivery at short notice of the massive Jamaica in the Square programme for Birmingham City Council, and a string of sell out shows inside the venue. We continue the strand with a string of popular Jamaican and Black British plays like She Want a Man; Me, My Wife, and Her Next Door; and The Lovers Rock Monologues – as well as locally developed shows like The Good Person of Sezuan (reset in 1970s Trenchtown) and The Spiral. The Afrovibes Festival brings a week of cutting edge international theatre and dance from South Africa to Birmingham, and the music programme also contains some popular artists this season – revolutionary rapper Immortal Technique, UK soul icon Terri Walker, Afrobeat legend Wunmi, Wolverhampton’s international musical export Macka.B, and superstar Pakistani songstresses Naseebo Lal and Sanam Marvi, among others. The Classics of Old Skool package will have you on your feet and dancing to the best soul and funk tunes from back in the day, while the official launch of Black History Month will pay tribute to the late, great Andy Hamilton with a specially commissioned jazz performance. Finally dance, film, literature and spoken word, and community and young people’s productions complete the programme. Let us build on the historic achievements of Jamaica 50: Birmingham 2012 and the Cultural Olympiad, and continue onwards and upwards to create a space where all communities can come together to work, play and thrive! Mukhtar Dar Director of Arts and Marketing
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schools friends of the drum drum spaces partners booking info diary
the official launch of birmingham black history month 2012 Fri 28 Sep, 6pm Admission by invitation only The annual Official Launch of Birmingham Black History Month at The Drum seeks to celebrate the achievements, contributions and struggles of African, Asian and Caribbean people within the context of their diversity and heritage. This year’s launch programme is dedicated to celebrating the life and work of the legendary Jamaican-British jazz musician and community figurehead the late great Andy Hamilton. Andy Hamilton, described as the ‘grand elder statesman of the Birmingham Jazz scene’, passed away on Sunday 3 June 2012 aged 94. The BHM Launch programme will include tributes from musicians and friends as well as specially commissioned performances and presentations. To register your interests please contact Selina Brown at p-officer@the-drum.org.uk
events
nubian book readers
Fri 5 Oct, Fri 26 Oct, Fri 30 Nov, 7.30pm £2 If you’re a fan of books written by African, Afrrican-Caribbean, African-American authors then join the Nubian Readers Book Club. The lively group meets on the last Friday of every month
uniwa and global ethnic ltd present
the 52nd nigeria independence celebrations Sat 13 Oct, 6pm £5 “Nigeria at 52, Challenges & Future Prospects” Keynote speeches by Chief Abiola Ajimobi - Executive Governor, Oyo State of Nigeria and the Hon. Abike Dabiri - Chairman, Diaspora Committee, Federal House of Representatives, Nigeria. Other addresses by Chief Babatunde Lapade - Chairman, Ibadan North Local Government, Oyo State, Nigeria and the Lord Mayor of Birmingham. Featuring the “Service to Nigerian Community” Awards 2012. Music by DJ KYS.
Box Office 0121 333 2444
The Drum in partnership with Birmingham City Council presents
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music
macka b change the world album launch Sat 15 Sep, 9pm £10 A celebration of Macka.B’s new album, Change The World. One of Britain’s most influential dancehall toasters, hailing from Wolverhampton, veteran reggae artist Macka.B has worked with Wassifa Sound, producers such as Mad Professor and Black Scorpion, and toured with reggae legends the Wailers, U Roy, Burning Spear and Lee Scratch Perry. The first new album by four years by the Rastafarian MC features guest vocals by Luciano, David Hinds and Earl 16, and we celebrate with an evening of live performance, DJ sets and positive vibes.
Lollywood Promotions in partnership with The Drum present:
naseebo lal in concert Early October (see website for details) £12 (£10) MOTD Naseebo Lal is regarded as a mega super star within Pakistan. She has recorded over 1500 songs, produced over 100 albums and as a playback singer, she has dominated the Punjabi film industry, with her first film being ‘Desa da Raja’ in 1999. Blessed with a strong and powerful voice, she is able to change, vary, strain, snap, twist and swing her vocal chords according to the demand of the song. Following the death of Pakistan’s supreme melody queen Madam Noor Jehan, Naseebo Lal came to fill the vacuum and established a fan base that stretched from the Northern Frontier across Pakistan and into the rest the Indian subcontinent. Her voice echoes the vibrancy, strength and boisterousness of the Punjab, her songs ring out of bustling bazaars, cinema halls and the overcrowded buses.
the magic of old skool classics
Sat 6 Oct, 9pm - 2am £12 Advance, MOTD, £20 VIP Tickets* This superbly-choreographed stage show, honours the Soul, Motown and Reggae legends, whose chart topping hits have had the world singing and dancing for the last 5 decades. Bringing together leading male harmonies, spectacular female vocals, dazzling costumes and with Birmingham’s leading musicians assembled as the backing band, this fast-moving production recreates the slick moves, stylish looks and legendary musicianship that were the making of this golden era. The Divas of Soul, The Brothers of Soul, The Reggae Divas, and Lee Alexander, will have you singing and dancing to your all-time-favourite hits made famous by legendary artists such as: Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Witney Huston, Beyonce, Sir John Holt, Dennis Brown, Sugar Minott, Carroll Thompson, Luisa Marks & scores more. Local support on the night includes Tiny Super Star with music supplied by Stevie J. *VIP tickets will allow you to queue jump, meet and greet artists and a free glass of bubbly on arrival. Between 8-9pm ONLY.
Nu Century Arts presents Live Box:
david grey and ‘big wave. small giant’
catch a fire - a tribute to bob marley and the wailers Sat 13 Oct, 7.30pm @THSH £16.50, £18.50* Jazz Jamaica All Stars and the Urban Soul Orchestra, with special guest Brinsley Forde (Aswad) have created a sensational new orchestral interpretation of Bob Marley and The Wailers’ groundbreaking and iconic album. Make sure that you Catch a Fire while you can – it’ll move your soul and move your feet too! Box Office 0121 345 0603 Book online www.thsh.co.uk
Sat 20 Oct, 8pm £6 (£4) This collective of superb Birmingham-based musicians brings you big music, full of life and played from the heart – heart-felt music not restricted to any one genre. Line-up: David Austin Grey: Piano/Keyboard Chris Mapp: Electric Bass/Double Bass Tymek Jozwiak: Drum Kit Mark ‘Magoo’ Robertson: Percussion Gareth Fowler: Guitar Chris Young: Alto Saxophone Tom Dunnett: Trombone Nick Rundle: Tenor Saxophone
Box Office 0121 333 2444
music
AW Music and The Drum Present:
*A £2.50 fee per transaction is charged on all bookings except those made in person at Town Hall or Symphony Hall box office
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music
Spread Love TV in association with The Drum and Sic’ Note Promotions presents:
immortal technique - live in concert Sun 27 Oct, 8pm- midnight £15 (£12.50 early bird offer available until 6 October from The Drum’s Box Office) Afro-Peruvian rapper and producer Immortal Technique moved from Peru to New York to escape civil war in the 1980s. The C.I.A. sponsored suppression of the liberation struggle in his homeland, together with his experience of growing up on the mean streets of Harlem, politicised him and made him aware of his African heritage and of the wider revolutionary solidarity between the oppressed peoples of the world. Enamoured with hip hop and graffiti culture, the aspiring young emcee was dragged down into an aggressive spiral of violence, ending up in jail on assault charges. Incarcerated, he studied, worked out, and wrote down his brutally disrespectful and realist lyrics, until in 1999 he emerged on parole and into the ciphers and battles that would lead him to his current status as an international hip hop icon. The resulting music is a hardcore brand of street politics, transmitted through his own independent label, that continues to find common cause with and inspire revolutionary movements all over the world. Don’t miss the first chance to see one of the world’s greatest lyricists perform live in Birmingham! Also featuring members of Immortal’s NYC crew, Swave Sevah, Poison Pen and DJ Static. Age restriction 16+ Under 18s to be accompanied by an adult at all times
wayne shorter quartet Thu 1 Nov, 7.30pm @THSH £25, £30 Wayne Shorter returns to Birmingham for the first time since 2003 to play with his all-star band featuring Danilo Perez, John Patitucci and Brian Blade. His music transcends genre and keeps the improvisational genius and surprise of jazz burning at the centre. Box Office 0121 345 0603 Book online www.thsh.co.uk *A £2.50 fee per transaction is charged on all bookings except those made in person at Town Hall or Symphony Hall box office
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ayanna
Sat 3 Nov, 8pm £6 (£4) A vocalist and cellist leading the way in Black folk music. She is the first non-American to win the legendary Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater in Harlem – and one of only a handful of people to win with an original composition. Her solo performances are intimate journeys that express her experience as a 21st century woman, drawing upon hope, human relationships and the stories of Sojourner Truth as inspiration.
Photo by Adrian Burrows
music
christmas with the town hall gospel choir Sun 16 Nov, 7pm £12.50 (£8.50) Get into the Christmas mood with Town Hall Gospel Choir’s soulful and inspirational singing of festive favourites. Having collaborated with stars such as Hugh Masekela and Muyiwa, the choir are excited to present their very own gospel extravaganza. Expect Go Tell It On The Mountain, Mary Had A Baby, and Carol of the Bells, as well as the opportunity to sing, hum or clap along to your favourite carols.
GL Live presents:
affinity - one night. one god. one people Sat 24 Nov, 7pm £7.50 (£5) From Europe’s leading Urban Gospel media group, GL360, comes another live music experience, featuring some of the top, young Urban Gospel artists from around the UK. The night will feature a range of urban styles with rap from Breaker and Ni Sheng; and the powerful RnB/Soul vocals of Natty Joshia. This night will also see the launch of 3 albums from Treblez, Dee Moore and Blenzz.
Box Office 0121 333 2444
Nu Century Arts presents Live Box:
Everyone who comes will receive a FREE copy of Treblez’s album.
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music Punch Records and The Drum present:
terri walker & kof live with full backing band Sun 25 Nov, 8pm £12 (£10) Enjoy a night of soulful vibes with the UK’s hottest talent around! Mercury and MOBO nominated Terri Walker is working with producer Salaam Remi (Nas, Amy Winehouse) on her new album, due for release in 2013. Hear the new tunes for the first time in this exclusive show. Rapper/singer-songwriter Kof’s developing buzz has led to kudos and support from the likes of Ras Kwame, DJ Target, Mistajam, Huw Stephens, Ace N Vis and many more, and collaborations with Wiley, Sway, Wretch 32, Skinnyman, Rodney P, Curtis Lynch Jnr, Jaguar Skills and numerous top producers.
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sampad seasonal sabha Sun 9 Dec, 4pm £6 (£4) Sabha is Sampad’s popular showcase for local and emerging talent. Join us for an enchanting afternoon show of South Asian song and music to celebrate the festive season.
The Drum in partnership with Halqa-e Arbab-e Zauq presents:
sanam marvi in concert SPRING 2013 (see website for details) £12 One of the youngest and fastest rising stars in Pakistan, Sanam Marvi’s name is on the tip of every tongue. She is among the finest contemporary exponents of the great ghazal and kafi musical styles. She sings compositions which are rooted in the intense encounter between sensitivity and spirituality that is Sufism, finding solace and peace in the inner truths of Sufi poetry. She is in her element with the compositions of the Sufi Saints Baba Bulleh Shah, Baba Sheikh Farid, Sachal Sarmast and Shah Abdul Latif. Feted as the heir to the crown of the legendary Abida Parveen, Sanam Marvi is quite simply one of the most remarkable voices on the planet. Her gloriously honeyed voice is a warm, agile instrument; suffused with sadness, joy, strength and fragility in equal measure. Her intimate, uplifting, charged music holds audiences of thousands spellbound. She is a woman of very few words and asks to be judged only by her music. “Singing to me is not just a passion any more. It is my justuju, my quest, my mission.” Sanam Marvi: deeply religious; profoundly humble; highly recommended.
Harmony Productions presents
me, my wife…and her next door! Fri 21 & Sat 22 Sep, 7.30pm 17.50 (£16 concession) £20 OTD Gladys and Kenneth have been in a happy and stable marriage for over 20 years, but their happiness is being tested and emotions shaken and stirred by Helen, their deceitful neighbour. Will Gladys and Kenneth’s marriage withstand the pressure? And why is Helen trying to come in the way of true love and happiness? To find out the answers to these questions and a whole lot more besides, don’t miss this hilarious comedy for 2012… Me, My Wife, and Her Next Door!!
Box Office 0121 333 2444
theatre
death of a beauty saleswoman Wed 12 & Thu 13 Sep, 7.30pm £7 (£5) Welcome to the extreme, ridiculous and downright hilarious world of Jacqueline Jones – Tropic Beauty International saleswoman extraordinaire. Armed only with blonde ambition, a total lack of morals and a terrifying arsenal of high pressure selling techniques, our heroine has acrylic-clawed her way to success and riches. But when her empire begins to crumble, the mask begins to slip... Funny, outrageous and honest; this is a story of how we can gain the world but lose ourselves trying to keep it. Back by popular demand following last year’s hilarious sell out show. Written and performed by Debbie Tracey Directed by Steven Luckie
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www.the-drum.org.uk
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theatre Yaady Boy Entertainment presents
she want a man
Sat 20 Oct, 7.30pm £18 (£16) £20 OTD Set amidst the hustle and bustle, the music and chaos of the streets of down town Kingston and the rich wealthy suburbs of St Andrew in Jamaica. Percy Jones is a hard headed police constable and businessman who has everything a man dreams of – a successful business and plenty of money. His only problem is his 25 year old daughter Clair, a young and attractive girl who sits in her room day after day reading love poetry and fantasising about prince charming coming to her rescue. Percy, approaching his final days is adamant that his daughter finds herself a man to carry on his name. But Clair has eyes only for Marcus, a nerdy mama’s boy – though after seven years they still haven’t shared a kiss. So Percy decides to take matters into his own hands, taking out an advert in the local newspaper and offering a reward to any man who will marry his daughter and give him grandchildren. His plan takes a turn for the worst when his advert starts to attract some very unsavoury characters.
Highly Sprung Theatre Co present
child of terror
Thu 25 Oct, 7.30pm £7 (£5) The world has been destroyed by violence and terrorism. Through the eyes of the innocent we witness an epic journey where lives hang in the balance and love holds the answers. Child of Terror is a unique production, developed specially at The Drum by Coventry-based company Highly Sprung, that fuses the energy of local young people with the experience of professional performers to tell a story of terrorism, relevant to and influenced by the views of a new generation. Directed by Sarah Worth www.highlysprungperformance.co.uk
theatre
the good person of sezuan the lovers rock Thu 1 Nov, 7.30pm monologues Fri 2 Nov, 1pm & 7.30pm £8 (£6) by Bertolt Brecht Translated by Michael McMillan Brecht’s classic comedy – updated and set in Jamaica! The acclaimed production makes a welcome return to the Drum, following sell-out performances in 2010. Brecht’s original play is set in China – but our version moves the action to Jamaica in the 1980s: a time of political violence and gang warfare… Bob Marley’s music… flared trousers and platform shoes… Things are going well for Renward, since he took over his cousin Rhema’s tobacco business. She was just too good – she let people walk all over her. Renward never lets that happen. But Rhema’s neighbours and friends are worried. What has happened to her? Why has she disappeared? When Renward is brought to trial and accused of his cousin’s murder, he is forced to reveal the secret of his identity... Michael McMillan’s translation is written in Jamaican patois, and features several new songs, as well as some classic reggae tracks.
Fri 9 & Sat 10 Nov, 7.30pm £12 (£10) £15 OTD A heart-warming and funny show, with Lovers Rock ambassadors Janet Kay, Carroll Thompson and Victor Romero Evans sharing stories from back in the day. Music meets theatre in this intimate inside story, with the soundtrack performed live. Lovers Rock, a sub-genre of reggae born in the UK, defined a generation in the late 70s and 80s, hugely impacting on British pop culture. Lovers Rock Monologues is a fantastic opportunity to revisit and experience the music and mood that shaped an era, in the company of three of the people who made it happen.
Box Office 0121 333 2444
MAT & Sister Tree present
This production by MAT & Sister Tree features a mixture of professional and non-professional actors. Educational workshops on Brecht (aimed at GCSE/BTEC/‘A’ level) are available to accompany this production. Contact news@midlandactorstheatre.co.uk for more details. (Contains strong language and some mild drug references.) ‘Saw this last night. It was absolutely joyous. I came home feeling as if I’d been to the best party in the world!’ (Audience member)
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theatre MAT and Sister Tree present
new plays for jamaica 50: “school for wives” and “the merchant of port royal” Thu 15 Nov, 7.30pm Free Admission MAT and Sister Tree are currently touring their acclaimed production of The Good Person of Sezuan. Alongside the tour, to celebrate Jamaica 50 the companies are working with two scriptwriters to develop ideas for new plays. The writers – Cindy Claes and Angela McNab – have taken well-known ‘classics’ by Shakespeare and Moliere, and adapted them to reflect aspects of Jamaican history and culture. This special event will present scenes from the new plays. Cindy Claes is a choreographer who tells stories through dance. She has led dance-theatre projects with artists in Jamaica. She is also a Dancehall lover. The play that Cindy has chosen to adapt is The School of Wives –Moliere’s comedy of manners, inna Dancehall style! Angela McNab is based in Birmingham. She has adapted Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice – now retitled The Merchant of Port Royal. The play is set at the time when Port Royal was a base of operations for privateers such as Henry Morgan, and reflects the place of the Jewish community in Jamaican history. As Angela says: “The Jewish community of Jamaica is probably the oldest Jewish settlement in the New World. In the early 18th Century, there were more Jews in Kingston than there were in London!” Find out more about how the writers have given a Caribbean twist to ‘classic’ texts at this sharing of work-in-progress.
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The Drum and Punch Records present
the spiral - with deci4life and moqapi selassie
Fri 7 & Sat 8 Dec, 8pm £7 (£5) Back by popular demand, the BASS Festival commission returns as part of its UK tour! An inward spiral decays and dies, An outward spiral grows and thrives! Don’t miss this re-scripted version of the life-changing meeting between Glitzy – an emerging grime artist from North Birmingham, funded to study on a 6-month ‘community arts placement’, and his newly appointed ‘development mentor’, veteran dub poet and radical cultural activist Leroy ‘Steppin-Razor’ Ujima. The initial contradictions – literary and ideological – in their relationship are played out through a startling, intense poetic dialogue that will challenge and eventually change the assumptions and worldviews of both wordsmiths. UK tour funded by Arts Council England
Box Office 0121 333 2444
Mon 8 - Sat 13 Oct
afrovibes
The thrilling biannual festival of contemporary theatre, dance, spoken word and music from South Africa returns to The Drum. Experience stunning performances onstage or hang out in the Township Café with authentic African food and drink plus a host of festival fringe events. Enjoy workshops, debates, after-show talks, late night music and other pop-up performances by both local and international artists. Afrovibes 2012 – it’s an experience! Festival pass - £20
thembi mtshali-jones drama workshop launch Mon 8 Oct, 6pm Help us welcome the South African artists to Birmingham, and sample the Township Café vibe with some free food and excerpts from the forthcoming week’s performances. We also launch Tyler Dolan’s exhibition Walking The Streets.
Tue 9 Oct, 5pm £3 The shocking death of US student Amy Biehl in Apartheid-era Cape Town is tackled in tonight’s play Mother to Mother. This workshop is a chance to meet leading South African actress Thembi Mtshali-Jones and look at issues like reconciliation and healing of memories; violence amongst dissatisfied youth; disconnect between the generations; and how they can be addressed through contemporary theatre practice.
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afrovibes
Free Voice Productions presents:
mother to mother Tue 9 Oct, 7.30pm £8 (£6) A pointless murder has been carried out in the Gugulethu township of Cape Town by four youths. The mother of one of them tries to make sense of it all by recounting events to the victim’s mother in an imaginary conversation. Poignant, moving and ultimately uplifting, this personal testimony captures the soul of an ordinary woman, racked by guilt and tragedy. Powerful theatre, delivered with dignity, sensitivity and humour by leading South African actor Thembi Mtshali-Jones. Followed by a post-show discussion.
community conference on gang violence Wed 10 Oct, 10am Free Admission - to register contact marketing@the-drum.org.uk A panel of experts drawn from Birmingham’s government and community organisations uses the opportunity of Mother To Mother – where inspirational art has been produced from tough social conditions – to look at local concerns. An opportunity to take stock, asking: where are we now, where are we heading, what should we do?
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thirst
Wed 10 Oct, 6pm & Thu 11 Oct, 1pm £8 (£6) – under 16s and over 65s £1 each Written and directed by Festival director James Ngcobo, this magical, innovative fable is loosely based on Baldini’s ‘The Water Carriers’. On their quest to find water and save their village, three water carriers encounter mysterious characters, riddles and provocations, drawing on Nguni mythology in a show that is suitable for families and schools. An ecological message enriched by dance, physical theatre, song and traditional African storytelling.
thirst meets the audience Thu 11 Oct, after 1pm performance
Photo courtesy of Ruphin Coudyzer FPPSA)
afrovibes The Market Theatre, Johannesburg in association with Tick Tock Productions presents:
and the girls in their sunday dresses
Wed 10 - Thu 11 Oct, 8pm £10 (£8) Food is scarce and prices have rocketed sky-high. The gap between rich and poor has widened dramatically. You have to wait for days on end just to buy the basics to survive. In this African ‘Waiting For Godot’ The Lady (a retiring prostitute) and The Woman (a fiery domestic worker) meet in a queue, developing an unlikely friendship despite coming from different walks of life. The Lady has brought her chair, the Woman has brought her lunch – and thus they pass their time in mutual dependency, played with great hilarity by two of South Africa’s most celebrated comediennes Lesego Motsepe and Hlengiwe Lushaba. Directed by Princess Mhlongo, Standard Bank Young Artist of the Year 2012.
Box Office 0121 333 2444
Sibojama presents:
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afrovibes struggling to survive - south africa theatre symposium
Thu 11 Oct, 3.30pm Free Admission In the late seventies and eighties, theatres like The Market in Johannesburg were amongst the most politically audacious in the world, but what are the burning issues now the struggle is over? What can South African theatre bring to the world stage? What are the main challenges to producing good theatre?
africa rising poetry jam with sonia radebe & zena edwards
dancelines across 3 continents conference
Fri 12 Oct, 8pm £4 Poets, emcees and dancers pay homage to contemporary Africa and the themes of Black History Month in this one-off Township Café poetry event. Featuring Zena Edwards and Sonia Radebe with host Sic’Nis. To take part contact j.morley@the-drum.org.uk
Sat 13 Oct, 4pm Free Admission Explore the links between dance traditions in Africa, the Americas and the UK in the company of experts on Zulu, Nigerian, Ghanaian, Trinidadian, Brazilian and Jamaican genres. With curtain-raisers for the evening show presented by Tru Street Dance and Ishkoka Dance Ensemble. Chaired by Deborah Baddoo (National Black Dance Strategic Alliance)
inception & my exile
afrovibes
Sat 13 Oct, 8.30pm £8 (£6) Sonia Radebe – Inception A complex, textured, psychological journey into the female psyche, where gazelle-like movements and a techno whale song score help a graceful being to surf reality and imagination.
africa unite! afro vibes after party with sibikwa and local support
Sat 13 Oct, 10pm £10 The Sibikwa African Indigenous Orchestra use traditional and Western instruments (uhadi, horns, drums, marimba, mbira, dinaka pipes…) to fuse Township Jazz with Afrobeat, evoking the true spirit of South Africa. Moving subtleties of sound combine with compelling rhythms and impressive drumming in a quirky fusion. Photos courtesy of Ruphin Coudyzer FPPSA)
Qudus Onikeku – My Exile is in My Head Inspired by Wole Soyinka’s prison notes ‘The Man Died’, this fascinating and physically challenging work by a renowned Nigerian choreographer is filled with angst, beauty, resignation and spirituality. Onikeku’s work combines traces of Nigerian forms with hip hop, tai chi, capoeira and acrobatics, and in this piece he draws on his Yoruba identity to explore themes of solitude and exile.
Box Office 0121 333 2444
International Dance Double Bill:
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film kirikou and the sorceress
National Schools Film Week provides teachers and their students the opportunity to see a selection of films at local cinemas entirely free-of-charge. In conjunction with Birmingham’s Black History Month. The Drum presents two free film screenings open to pre-booked educational groups only. For more information or to book tickets from September visit www.nationalschoolsfilmweek.org or call 020 7292 7300
Tue 16 Oct, 10am Free for pre-booked educational groups This animated film exquisitely recounts the tale of tiny Kirikou a clever, courageous little boy born in an African village in which Karaba the Sorceress has placed a terrible curse. Kirikou sets out on a quest to free his village of the curse and find out the secret of why Karaba is so wicked. This film speaks to the child within us all who yearns to express and defend the best in others and ourselves. Kirikou’s stunning visuals are accented by a traditional music soundtrack by African music giant Youssou N’ Dour. Dir: Michel Ocelot (74min) Cert
U
tempest Wed 17 Oct, 10am Free for pre-booked educational groups Q&A with one of the directors Rob Curry. Tempest is both a celebration of contemporary urban youth culture, and a 21st Century re-imagining of Shakespeare’s last great play. 17 young actors from South London struggle to put on a production. Their story unfolds alongside Prospero’s as The Oval is transformed into Shakespeare’s magical island and the outcast Duke conjures the spirits in the quest to regain his dukedom. Dir: Rob Curry (74min) Cert 12A
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jamaica gold film season
Fri 26 Oct, 7.30pm £5 (£3) A thrilling double bill of one new and one classic Jamaican film, together with Jamaican snacks and drinks and the Luv Injection selectors playing all your favourite tunes.
ghett’a life
rockers
Action drama set in politically turbulent inner-city Jamaica. Derrick is a coming of age street fighter who lives in a politically divided community in a Kingston ghetto, where to cross the line means being a traitor and death. One day, Derrick’s football goes over the wall into a gym – and into the other side of the political divide. To venture there he would have to go against his father, his community, and his beliefs. Will Derrick’s future be held back by the system he has accepted? Dir. Chris Browne, 2011 103 minutes
A classic of Jamaican filmmaking, featuring a star-studded line-up of reggae musicians. Horsemouth sets himself up in business selling records but when gangsters steal his bike things start to turn nasty. As tensions build, Horsemouth and friends plot to end the gangsters’ reign of terror and restore justice to the people of Kingston. Dir. Ted Bafaloukos, 1978 100 minutes Cert 15
film
Black International Film Festival in association with The Drum presents:
chuck venn and ellen thomas in conversation
Sun 28 Oct, 6pm Free Admission An evening of performance and stimulating debate as Venn (Dream Team, Footballers’ Wives and most recently Eastenders) and Thomas (Teachers, Rev, Eastenders) join Dr Joe Aldred to consider their careers in acting and the changing face of the industry. Your chance to ask questions, meet the celebrities and achievers from the Black International Film Festival, and enjoy a bite of Caribbean food and drink.
Box Office 0121 333 2444
Black International Film Festival in association with The Drum presents:
Cert 15
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comedy Upfront presents
felix dexter & guests
Fri 7 Sep, 7pm £12.50 (£10.50) £15 OTD Pre booked dinner + £5 (mixed meal +£7) OTD Dinner + £7.50 (mixed meal+ £9.50) Featuring the award winning comedy icon; star of Grumpy Old Men and The Real McCoy Felix Dexter, joined by the very dark humour of Junior Booker & London-Nigerian girl around the way Joy Carter.
black history month international special Fri 5 Oct, 7pm £12.50 (£10.50) £15 OTD Pre booked dinner + £5 (mixed meal +£7) OTD Dinner + £7.50 (mixed meal+ £9.50) Celebrating Black History Month with an international special featuring veteran New York comedienne Mugga from the Oscar winning film ‘Precious’, Sean G, recent winner of the National Student Comedian of the Year Competition, alongside rude and very funny Canadian comedienne Dana Michele Alexander.
slim & guests Fri 2 Nov, 7pm £12.50 (£10.50) £15 OTD Pre booked dinner + £5 (mixed meal +£7) OTD Dinner + £7.50 (mixed meal+ £9.50) Slim & Guests; Brixton bus driver turned venue filling ‘people’s choice’ comedian, Slim hits The Drum stage, in between scooping up Best Comedian Awards. He is kept comic company by mouthy Dane Baptiste & the outrageous Maureen Younger.
comedy
Lakin McCarthy presents
the boss rules! how bruce springsteen changed my life!
Fri 23 Nov, 8pm £8 (£6) A brand new one man show starring journalist, author and broadcaster Sarfraz Manzoor. Sarfraz Manzoor is a man on a mission – he believes Bruce Springsteen’s songs contain the secrets of love, life and happiness. Join Sarfraz on a humorous journey back to his childhood, where the songs of The Boss hold the key to escaping from Luton and finding the woman of his dreams.
Upfront presents
felicity ethnic & guests
Fri 7 Dec, 7pm £12.50 (£10.50) £15 OTD Pre booked dinner + £5 (mixed meal +£7) OTD Dinner + £7.50 (mixed meal+ £9.50) Belly laughs & clever observations from this Festive season line up, featuring a headline set from comedy’s most brutal female Felicity Ethnic, with her range of wise and tough ghetto characters. One of the circuit’s big hitters, she’s joined by Ola (MTV Base) and Ghanaian gagster & wise man Joe K.
Box Office 0121 333 2444
Upfront presents
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literature the pomedy show
UK Tour 2012 (Supported by Western Union & Learning Links)
Fri 19 Oct, 7.30pm £10 (£8) MOTD Laugh & Learn Jamaica – Tek Kin Teet Kibba Hart Bun! The Pomedy Show is an eclectic mix of Jamaican Comedy and Poetry celebrating Laughter, Love and Learning for the entire family and community. The Pomedy Show provides Clean Intelligence which allows the audience to Laugh & Learn together. This hilarious show is a Jamaica success story which has showcased the very best in Jamaican Comedy & Poetry such as: Yasus Afari, Oliver Samuels, Mutabaruka, Joan Andrea Hutchinson, Ity & Fancy Cat, Oral Tracey, Rohan Gunter, Dr Michael Abrahams & Ping Wing among others. Back at The Drum by popular demand the new line-up features Yasus Afari, Ping Wing & Jam Rock Theatre Group, among others. This hilarious Pomedy Show is a Jamaica 50 Anniversary Event. Check www.pomedy.com/ & www.yasusafari.biz/ for more info & updates.
inscribe:
Professional Development for Writers Introductory event Tue 23 Oct, 6pm Free Admission As well as being the home of the best in Caribbean and Black British writing, ground breaking publisher Peepal Tree Press is also home to Inscribe, a successful professional writer development programme, run by co-directors Kadija George and Dorothea Smartt. With its roots in Peepal Tree’s practice of editorial development, the Inscribe project was developed to support talented writers of African and Asian descent in Yorkshire. This programme is now being rolled out nationally and is open to all writers of colour (including Middle Eastern and Chinese). Experienced editor Kadija George will be at The Drum to meet writers of poetry and prose to tell them about the project and what they can offer writers in the West Midlands. She would like to hear from you, the writer, regarding your needs for your own professional development. Whether it’s improving your craft through workshops and master classes, breaking into print or accessing mentors and editors, Kadija can tailor the project to the writers. So come along and find out what’s on offer, all for free!
nimah ismail nawwab
literature
Fri 16 Nov, 7pm £3 Canvas of the Soul: Mystic Poems from the Heartland of Arabia Nimah Ismail Nawwab is an internationally published and recognised writer, best-selling poet, editor, photographer and women- and youth-empowerment activist. Her first volume of poetry, The Unfurling, became the fastest selling poetry book in Arabia. Her poems on women, freedom, equality and social justice as well as the universal themes of love, loss and simple joy have been published online and in print, advocating justice, compassion and respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere. Come and hear Nimah talk about her new book, Canvas of the Soul: Mystic Poems from the Heartland of Arabia. Drawing on a rich religious legacy and led by the Sufi tradition seeking Unity, these poems cover spirituality and present-day challenges. The inspiring combination of the traditional and modern in these compositions will captivate the hearts of those interested in Higher Love in these turbulent times.
Box Office 0121 333 2444
The Drum and Muslim Women’s Network UK present:
“(Nimah speaks) for the too-often silent voice of the Arab woman... a unique and articulate window to the soul”... - Stephen L. Brundage, Arab News “Nimah unfurls for us a world of beauty, pathos, tragedy, longing, restoration, and hope. She also offers us rare glimpses into the world of Saudi women that are at once unique and rooted in the passions, pathologies and poignant simple pleasure of Saudi society, yet also strikingly universal. “ - Afshin Molavi author
Nimah will be joined by Birmingham poet Saleha Begum, launching her debut collection Ruptures and Fragments. Followed by a Q&A facilitated by women’s rights
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www.the-drum.org.uk
exhibitions
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michael thompson freestylee: “artist without borders”
tyler dolan: walking the streets
Until Sat 6 Oct Free Admission Described as a “creative activist” in a recent interview in Arc Magazine, due to the subject matter of his work, which ranges from reggae music to police brutality and homophobia in Jamaica, the Arab Spring and persecution of fellow artists such as Ai Wei Wei, this international retrospective of the work of Freestylee was specially commissioned by the Kalaboration Project for the Jamaica Gold season.
Mon 8 Oct - Fri 16 Oct Free Admission Young South African photographer Tyler Dolan has recently shot a series of extraordinary photos on the theme of street life in Durban, plus a collection of photographs of Township life, markets, clubs and shebeens. The stunning photographs will be displayed as part of the Afrovibes exhibition in the Frontiers café bar.
vanley burke: the mosques of gambia
Sun 2 Dec - Thu 28 Feb 2013 Free Admission Birmingham’s internationally acclaimed photographer Vanley Burke has created a body of work depicting the environments where Islamic worship takes place in The Gambia. The sites range from temporary spaces adopted for prayer, to local ‘Jaka’ Mosques, to the large Friday ‘Juma’ Mosques.
the image makers: jamaica gold
The images reflect their religious, educational and social function as well as recognizing a wide variety of architectural styles and construction material. They were taken with the kind permission of the Mosque Elders who were delighted by the interest taken in their buildings; as such a future exhibition in The Gambia remains a long-term goal.
Box Office 0121 333 2444
exhibitions Mon 29 Oct - Fri 30 Nov Free Admission Twelve experienced and highly professional photographic experts came together this summer to form The Image Makers Network, documenting Jamaica 50: Birmingham 2012 close-up and personal. Being appointed as the official photographers for Birmingham City Council, they were authorised to access and capture images of the Jamaica Olympic Track and Field Teams whilst they trained in Birmingham, as well as the numerous celebratory events that took place during the period to mark Jamaica’s 50th anniversary of Independence. A selection of these stunning images will be shown at The Drum to close our momentous Jamaica Gold season.
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www.the-drum.org.uk
discounts at the drum We have lots of exciting offers and discounts at The Drum. We offer a concessionary rate on most performances, you can find this in brackets following our standard ticket price. Concessionary rates These tickets are available to senior citizens, registered unemployed, registered disabled and under 18s. Student discounts Students are entitled to a 10% discount on standard tickets for the majority of our events, call our Box Office for more information. p:ARTicipate Scheme Discounts are available for those living within the Hall Green and Ladywood area. Schools Reduced matinee tickets available for most schools performances. Please note, you may be asked for identification or proof of your circumstance, please call our box office prior to a performance to check discounts available. Feedback We’re always looking for ways to improve our service, if you would like to feedback any comments or suggestions on any aspect of your experience at The Drum please visit www.the-drum.org.uk
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schools Schools and community groups @ The Drum At The Drum we’re dedicated to helping young people further their education through participation, workshops and watching live events. While some provide treats for overworked pupils, the majority have been programmed to meet key topics found within the National Curriculum. In addition many of our events are supported by educational packs, Q&As with actors and dedicated workshops.
ent Want a bespokeoelvor for your scho up? community gro . Call us now
Bespoke Packages Looking for something different? The Drum has extensive experience of creating innovative works in partnership with various organisations within the arts and the formal and informal learning sectors. We can offer something to suit everyone’s budget and individual requirements. From a one-off workshop at our venue, storytelling and music during your assembly, weekly breakdance sessions at after school clubs to creating beats or devising scripts within your youth group setting, the opportunities are endless. All our artist-tutors have enhanced CRB checks and years of experience working with children, young people & vulnerable adults and are trained Arts Award Advisers. For more information contact Sarah Blackstock, s.blackstock@the-drum.org.uk
Friends of The Drum offers the perfect opportunity to get more involved with The Drum and to be a part of our dynamic and exciting future. Membership entitles you to a wide range of benefits from discounts on tickets, to invitations to meet artists. Call our Customer Service Team for more information on 0121 333 2444 or log onto our website www.the-drum.org.uk/friends
Under the p:ARTicipate scheme, Ladywood and Hall Green residents can obtain reduced priced tickets, on Under the p:ARTicipate scheme, Ladywood selected events, from as little as £3. All and Hall Green residents can obtain reduced you have to do to obtain your tickets is priced tickets,picture on selected from as to present ID andevents, proof of little as £3.to Allour youCustomer have to do to obtain your address Services Team. tickets is to present picture ID and proof of Community organisations should contact for details on Team. group address toBox our Office Customer Services bookings.organisations should contact the Community Customer Service Team forplease detailscontact on group For more information, The Drum’s Customer Service Team on bookings. 0121 333 2444. The p:ARTicipate scheme runs till December 2010. For more information, please contact The Drum’s Customer Service Team on 0121 333 2444.
Box Office 0121 333 2444
drum spaces
FRIENDS OF
Located 5 minutes drive from New Street train station and Birmingham City Centre, The Drum offers a number of spacious, bright and airy rooms perfect for meetings, training and workshops. Available in three formats; boardroom, theatre and cabaret style, The Drum is fully equipped technologically providing full AV equipment, overhead projectors and whiteboards. Our in-house catering team are also able to supply a variety of dishes to suit any occasion alongside our fully licensed bar which is open throughout the day and evening. EAT | RELAX | WORK | SOCIALISE For more information on hiring a space at Café The Drum visit newspaper) is the The Frontiers Bar, 4please star (Metro www.the-drum-spaces.co.uk or call perfect place to relax and soak up the vibrant atmosphere Whether you want to 0121 333 2400. that The Drum has on offer. Ideal for lunch, business give yourself an hour away from the office or meetings or social get-togethers, you can even combine a quick catch up over your visit to Frontiers as part of your night out at coffee with friends, The Drum. Being housed in an arts centre, which Frontiers Café Bar is specialises in live performances and cultural activities, the perfect place to why not come along and enjoy pre-show drinks and snacks. do just that. With a From Ackee and Salt Fish to homemade Coco bread, selection of world music playing quietly in the Frontiers offers contemporary Caribbean cuisine that background, Caribbean guarantees to tantalise your taste buds. meals, snacks, and Wi-Fi, Frontiers Café opening times Bar is perfect for that impromptu meeting Frontiers Café Bar is open Mon – Fri 12 noon – 7pm between friends or (opening hours extended for particular events); Saturdays business associates. one hour before an event and the last Sunday of every month www.the-drum-spaces.co.uk for lunchtime sessions with Andy Hamilton & The Blue Notes, 1 – 4pm.
FRONTIERS CAFé bAR
0121 333 2400 27
For more information visit www.the-drum.org.uk/facilities or
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GROW YOUR POTENTIAL WITH THOSE WHO PRACTISE WHAT THEY PREACH Learn from tutors who come from and maintain their links with industry on courses accredited by over 50 professional bodies. Are you up for the challenge?
To find out more about studying with us, visit our website, register for an Open Day or create your own personalised webpage at www.bcu.ac.uk/bcyou
bcu.ac.uk
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www.the-drum.org.uk
partners
We have developed excellent and successful partnerships over the years to deliver a range of eclectic performing and digital arts programmes and plan to continue and develop this tradition. We are proud to count the following organisations and individuals as our partners:
special thanks also goes to:
We’re investing £180m in new facilities so you’ll have the perfect learning environment to develop the skills you’ll need later in life.
Interested in becoming a partner or advertising with The Drum? Call us now on 0121 333 2400
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drum board members: Upkar S Pardesi – Chair Mick Durman – Vice Chair Sukhi Saini Sharon Palmer MBE Shaun Cope Leslie Fairclough Paulette Hamilton Tan Matthews Julian Moore Joel Graham- Blake Satnam Thiara Dibagh Dhami Khembe Clarke
Facilities for people with disabilities We are firmly committed to making The Drum fully accessible. Complimentary companion tickets are available on request, and are subject to availability. Free parking spaces are available on site. Please call the Box Office before your arrival if you wish to use those facilities.
When booking please ensure the performance details are correct, we only offer refunds in exceptional circumstances. Please see our website for more details on our refund exchange policy.
Online Tickets for the majority of our events are available online. Visit www.the-drum.org.uk and select the event you wish to see. Online ticket sales are managed Family/Group Bookings by TheTicketSellers.co.uk. Attractive discounts for families When you select ‘book now’ (up to four tickets, with at least you will be transferred to their one person under 12) and groups website. Please note additional are available for selected events. booking & transaction fees to may contact Box Office for Whether you want givePlease yourself an hour be incurred. details of special offers.
Air Conditioning In order to make your experience as enjoyable as possible air conditioning units are installed in the Main Auditorium.
Relax at The Drum
The Drum 144 Potters Lane Aston Birmingham B6 4UU
away from the office or a quick catch up
Lost Tickets Frontiers Café Café Bar over coffee with friends, Frontiers Bar Please note we cannot replace Now open from the perfect just that. With a lost orisstolen tickets. place to do 12pm-7pm Mon-Fri (subject quietly to events) with selection of world music playing in the Latecomers a selection of Caribbean background, a mix of Caribbean and South Latecomers will be admitted meals and snacks duringAsian a suitable break in theand Wi-Fi, available. meals, snacks, Frontiers Café performance, subject to The Call 0121 333 2446 is perfect for that impromptu meeting Drum’sBar discretion. for a menu.
between friends or business associates.
Situated next to the2444 café bar we’re proud to Box Office 0121 333
play host to a varied selection of exhibitions Email: info@the-drum.org.uk from local artists encapsulating The information contained in this brochure is correct at the time of going to press. It maybe subject to change,a please contact us to check performance details. The Drum is a non-smoking venue.
mix of
heritage, passion and outstanding talent.
Box Office 0121 333 2444
Hires Facilities are available to hire for private functions or meetings. For more information visit www.the-drum-spaces.co.uk or call 0121 333 2400.
SELSTON RD.
Parking There is limited on site parking. Vehicular access into Potters Lane can only be made by turning left off Park Lane (See Map).
facilities
A34 HIGH ST
Trains The nearest train stations are Birmingham New Street and Birmingham Moor Street.
info
C LI FF O RD ST.
NEWBURY RD.
ALMA ST.
Bus Route Buses 7, 8, 33, 51, 56
By Telephone Phone lines are open 9am - 8.30pm, Mon - Fri and 10am - 6pm, Sat - Sun, subject to events.
Ticket Prices Where indicated in brackets, concessions are available for senior citizens, registered unemployed, registered disabled and under 18s. On the door (OTD) ticket prices come into effect from 6pm on the evening of the gig/event.
P NEWTOWN SWIMMING BATHS
PARK LANE
BARTONS ARMS TE P OT
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In Person Tickets can be purchased in person from Box Office Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, except Bank Holidays.
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The Drum is located on the A34, just ten minutes outside Birmingham city centre on the site of former Aston Hippodrome, next to the Barton Arms. Please contact Box Office if you need further directions.
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booking information
A34 HIGH ST
location
BURLINGTON ST.
For more information, call 0121 333 2400 or email info@the-drum-spaces.org.uk to
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Upfront Comedy Felix Dexter & Guests Fri 7 Sep, 7pm Death of a Beauty Saleswoman Wed 12 & Thu 13 Sep, 7.30pm Macka B Sat 15 Sep, 9pm Naseebo Lal Sun 16 Sep, 7pm Me, My wife…and her next door! Fri 21 & 22 Sep, 7.30pm Official Launch of Birmingham Black History Month 2012 Fri 28 Sep, 6pm
October Upfront Comedy - Black History Month International Special Fri 5 Oct, 7pm Nubian Readers Fri 5 Oct, Fri 26 Oct, Fri 30 Nov, 7.30pm Michael Thompson Until 6 Oct The Magic of Old Skool Classics Sat 6 Oct, 9pm
Tyler Dolan 8 Oct – 26 Oct
Dancelines Sat 13 Oct, 4pm
Immortal technique Sun 27 Oct, 8pm
The Boss Rules! Fri 23 Nov, 8pm
52nd Nigerian Independence Celebrations Sat 13 Oct, 6pm
Inception & my Exile Sat 13 Oct, 8.30pm
Chuck Venn and Ellen Thomas Sun 28 Oct, 6pm
Affinity Sat 24 Nov, 7pm
Africa Unite Sat 13 Oct, 10pm
The Image Makers 29 Oct - 30 Nov
Terri Walker and Kof Live Sun 25 Nov, 8pm
Catch a Fire Sat 13 Oct, 7.30pm @THSH
November
December
Wayne Shorter Quartet Thu 1 Nov, 7.30pm @THSH
Vanley Burke Exhibition 2 Dec – 28 Feb 2013
Tempest Wed 17 Oct, 10am
The Good Person of Sezaun Thu 1 Nov, 7.30pm - Fri 2 Nov, 1pm & 7.30pm
Upfront Comedy- Felicity Ethnic & Guests Fri 7 Dec, 7pm
The Pomedy Show Fri 19 Oct, 7.30pm
Community Conference on Gang Violence Wed 10 Oct, 10am
Upfront Comedy - Slim & Guests Fri 2 Nov, 7pm
The Spiral Fri 7 & Sat 8 Dec, 8pm
She Want a Man Sat 20 Oct, 7.30pm
Ayanna Sat 3 Nov, 8pm
Sampad Seasonal Sabha Sun 9 Dec, 4pm
Thirst Wed 10 Oct, 6pm & Thu 11 Oct, 1pm
David Grey and ‘big wave’ Sat 20 Oct, 8pm
The Lovers Rock Monologues Fri 9 & Sat 10 Nov, 7.30pm
Thirst Meets the Audience Thu 11 Oct, after 1pm performance
Sanam Marvi Sat 21 Oct, 7pm
New Plays for Jamaica 50 Thu 15 Nov, 7.30pm
And the Girls in Their Sunday Dresses Wed 10 – Thu 11 Oct, 8pm
Inscribe Tue 23 Oct, 6pm
Struggling to Survive Thu 11 Oct, 3.30pm
Child of Terror Thu 25 Oct, 7.30pm
Christmas with the Town Hall Gospel Choir Sun 16 Nov, 7pm @THSH
Africa Rising Poetry Jam Fri 12 Oct, 8pm
Jamaica Gold Film Season Fri 26 Oct, 7.30pm
Afrovibes Festival Mon 8 – Sat 13 Oct Afrovibes Festival Launch Mon 8 Oct, 6pm Thembi Mtshali Jones Drama Workshop Tue 9 Oct, 5pm Mother to Mother Thu 9 Oct, 7.30pm
diary
Kirikou and the Sorceress Tue 16 Oct, 10am
Nimah Ismail Nawwab Fri 16 Nov, 7pm
www.the-drum.org.uk Box Office 0121 333 2444
The information contained in this brochure is correct at the time of going to press. It maybe subject to change, please contact us to check performance details. The Drum is a non-smoking venue. Design: Gambit Graphics 01562 731313
September