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.

CllrAdele 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