Reading reveals programme for Black History Month 2024
- Black History Month 2024 in Reading offers music, dance, and theatre events from 1-31 October.
- Many events low-cost or free of charge at venues across the Borough
A VARIED AND ENGAGING programme of music, dance, theatre and more will highlight Black History Month 2024.
This year's events, taking place in venues across the borough from 1 – 31 October, highlight the rich and multifaceted heritage of Black communities, highlighting the important and ongoing contributions they have made, to both our town and across the country.
There is a packed line-up of inspiring and dance workshops, thought-provoking film and theatre, award-winning live music, and more, with many events free of charge.
Highlights during the month include:
- Learn to play steel pan music with Reading All Steel Percussion Orchestra - RASPO.
Families and all ages (7+) are welcome, and no previous music experience is needed. All instruments and equipment provided. 16s and under free, over 16s/adults £10 per class. 1, 8, 15 & 22 October, 5.30pm to 6.30pm, CultureMix Arts & Music Centre.
Book tickets on Eventbrite: https://steelbandbeginnerscourse20.eventbrite.co.uk
- Bring your flag, a water bottle and comfortable clothes and get ready to practice your carnival dance moves to some Soca beats with CultureMix! This fun energetic dance class combines keep-fit routines with simple dance steps for a fun dance workout to some of your favourite Caribbean music. Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. Saturdays 5, 12 & 19 October, 11am to 12pm.
Book tickets £6.50 on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/soca-dance-class-tickets-1009183473937?aff=oddtdtcreator
- The Dreamer - Saturday 12 October, 7pm, The Hexagon
A young boy has a dream, that one day he will do something great. Loved dearly by his father, but hated and despised by his older brothers, he is sold into a life of slavery and eventually imprisoned and given a life sentence. Will his dreams come true? Join us for this brand new gospel musical as we blend the ancient and the contemporary to retell the amazing Joseph story.
Tickets £17.50. Book at www.whatsonreading.com/venues/hexagon/whats-on/dreamer, or call the Box Office on 0118 960 6060
- Creative Connection - Celebrating Black Filmmakers - Thursday 17 October, 6.15 pm to 8.30 pm, Reading Biscuit Factory
Through A Different Lens welcomes you to the Creative Connection evening supported by the University of Reading, celebrating independent films made by the Black community, including ‘The Nod: Tell Me You Got Me’ directed by Richard Ampeh - a short film exploring the black male experience of living in the UK.
18+. £5 per person, book on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/creative-connection-celebrating-black-filmmakers-tickets-1007867176857
- RASPO Showcase - Saturday 19 October, 6.30pm to 8.30pm, CultureMix Arts & Music Centre
An evening of cultural steelpan music for Black History Month. Award-winning steel orchestra RASPO is established as one of the UK’s leading steel bands.
Tickets £5. Free entry for children under 12. Book tickets on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/raspo-showcase-tickets-1012785778527?aff=oddtdtcreator
- Our Little Hour - Tuesday 29 October, 8pm to 10pm, South Street Arts Centre
A Musical Drama based on the life of Walter Tull.
The inspirational story of the legendary pioneering hero Walter Tull is brought to the stage in a new musical drama by award-winning playwright Dougie Blaxland and revered composer Chris Anthony.
Tickets £17.50 (£15.50 South Street Members). Book at www.whatsonreading.com/our-little-hour.
Cllr Adele Barnett-Ward, Reading Borough Council’s Lead Councillor for Leisure and Culture said:
“We take immense pride in the diversity that defines our town. Reading’s Black communities are an integral part of Reading, playing a key role in shaping our identity, enriching both our cultural and economic life, and continuing to excel in business, academia, and the arts.
"Reading's Black History Month is always a highlight of our town’s cultural calendar. I encourage everyone to dive into this year's exciting programme and experience the rich music, theatre, and educational events happening across the Borough. The month also acts as a reminder that even in 2024 Black people still experience inequality and that we all have a responsibility to live our values of fairness and inclusion every day of the year.”
Further details and the complete Black History Month 2024 programme can be found via: www.reading.gov.uk/black-history-month24.
ENDS
Notes to editors
Black History Month was founded in the USA by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian, who designated February as a time for African Americans to celebrate and acknowledge their heritage and achievements. Dr. Woodson’s vision was to ensure that the contributions of Black individuals were recognised and appreciated, fostering a deeper understanding of African American history and culture.
In England, Black History Month was first marked in October 1987, during the African Jubilee Year, to promote racial harmony in London. Since then, it has expanded across the entire country, embracing and recognising the contributions and traditions of diverse Black communities.