Birmingham Black History Month 2018

2018 EVENT PROGRAMME

COMPELLING STORIES TOLD AT THE REP

25 - 29 SEP Arcola Theatre presents

NEW NIGERIANS

By Oladipo Agboluaje

A side-splitting satire on the state of populism in our politics.

15 - 16 OCT Selina Thompson Ltd present

SALT Written and performed by Selina Thompson

In 2016, two artists retraced one of the routes of the Transatlantic Slave Triangle. This show is what they brought back.

27 NOV - 1 DEC Reading Rep, Desara Bosnja and Nuffield Southampton Theatres present

THE MOUNTAINTOP

By Katori Hall

Set on the night before Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s death, this sharp and powerful play confronts the legend and his legacy.

BOOK NOW 0121 236 4455 BIRMINGHAM-REP.CO.UK

Registered in England 295910 Charity No.223660

REP SeasonAd Jul18 195x135m.indd 1

28/07/2018 11:19

FOREWORD

Councillor Jayne Francis CABINET MEMBER FOR EDUCATION, SKILLS AND CULTURE

Birmingham City Council has proudly been supporting Black History Month since the mid-1990s - it has become an important feature of the City’s event calendar.

Birmingham holds its diversity dear (we are the most diverse Core City in the UK) and the City Council is mindful of the need to reflect on its development, to learn new and inspiring stories, and include as many people as possible in considering the impact of black history on our identity in the 21st Century.

Throughout October residents and visitors will be able to take part in various cultural activities. It will be a month of celebration, with vibrant and uplifting content, and a great opportunity to particularly engage and educate more young people in Black History Month. In this 70th anniversary year of the arrival of the Empire Windrush to Britain, it is fitting that this year’s programme includes events connecting African and Caribbean communities through migration to Birmingham from post war to the modern day. I congratulate

the partners and organisations involved in organising and co-ordinating the month’s activities across Birmingham. Our thanks, in particular, go to Blackstory Partnership, which includes Inspiring A New Generation, Mykal Wassifa Brown CIC, PFG Consultancy and Recognize Black Heritage and Culture, who have compiled an exciting programme of events.

A number of other organisations across the City - including the University of Birmingham - are also supporting Black History Month with a series of events, and we applaud and welcome their contributions.

I am confident this programme will appeal to a wide range of tastes and interests and hope that 2018 will be another successful year for this important initiative.

BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

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WELCOME Inspiring A New Generation, PFG Consultancy, Mykal Wassifa Brown CIC and Recognize Black Heritage and Culture have been commissioned by Birmingham City Council to plan and deliver Birmingham Black History Month 2018 Brochure and Launch event.

The brochure lists events, activities and exhibitions taking place in Birmingham during October. Blackstory Partnership have not captured all of the events and activities taking place during Black History Month.

We would appreciate if you could visit our website:

WWW.BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK to inform us of any other events during October and beyond.

Blackstory Partnership aim is to acknowledge and reflect the Black History narrative in order to Educate, Empower and Motivate current and future generations.

This can only be achieved through your help and support.

PEACE, LOVE & UNITY 4

BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

OFFICIAL LAUNCH TUE 25 SEP 6PM – 10PM

HOSTED BY: DES COLEMAN

ITV CENTRAL WEATHER PRESENTER

GUEST SPEAKERS: MYKAELL RILEY

PFG

CONSULTANCY

BLACK MUSIC RESEARCHER

DR KEHINDE ANDREWS

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR IN SOCIOLOGY Birmingham City University

PERFORMANCES BY BASIL GABBIDON BAND FORMER MEMBERS OF STEEL PULSE MUSICAL YOUTH & MORE STAGE PERFORMANCE: DR KING THE AFTERMATH If you are interested in attending BHM 2018 launch and you would like to reserve a free ticket please visit:  thsh.co.uk/event/black-history-month-2018-launch TOWN HALL SYMPHONY HALL Birmingham Town Hall, Victoria Square B3 3DQ

CONTENTS

EXHIBITIONS

PRE

WEEK

WEEK

WEEK

WEEK

WEEK

6

9-12

14-17

18-21

22-23

24-25

OCT ONE TWO THREE FOUR FIVE

P 26-27

EVENTS

P 28-29

BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

5

SAT 29 SEP

SAT

29 SEP –

4:30PM – 6:30PM

8PM

WILSON ALEXANDER SHERVINGTON MEMORIAL LECTURE – ‘CUBA IN AFRICA’

YOLANDA BROWN: 10 YEARS IN MUSIC. THE ANNIVERSARY TOUR

Wilson believed in education for liberation, we honour his life and legacy with a favourite: Cuba in Africa!

Performed by Dr. Christabelle Peters, her talk will be delivered in a performance style and based on her book ‘Cuban Identity and the Angolan Experience (2012) MOCKINGBIRD THEATRE Custard factory, Gibb Street, Digbeth, Birmingham B9 4AA FREE EVENT For more information:  antiashervington @hotmail.com  tinyurl.com/BHM-sep-29

SUN

30 SEP

SAT 29 SEP

Double MOBO-Award-winning Yolanda Brown is the premier female saxophonist in the UK. Known for her unique fusion of reggae, jazz and soul, this 10-year celebration tour features music from her critically acclaimed albums, plus many crowd favourites.

MIDLANDS ARTS CENTRE Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH TICKETS: £22 / £19.50  Box Office 0121 446 3232  macbirmingham.co.uk

SUN 30 SEP

JAMAICAN HIGH COMMISSION WINDRUSH GENERATION PROJECT To mark the 70th anniversary of Windrush Generation, the Jamaican High Commission, will be honouring the achievements of 500 persons of Jamaican Heritage, who have significantly contributed to the advancement and development of the United Kingdom.

Go to Jamaican Commission website to complete the nomination form  jhcuk.org

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BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

Umbrella provides free and confidential sexual health advice and services in Birmingham and Solihull.

• Condoms • STI testing and treatment • Contraception ... and more

umbrellahealth.co.uk/bhm

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GD18_7421 Advert Black history month 2018 advert.indd 1

21/08/2018 07:48

WED 3 OCT

12.45PM – 1.30PM

EXHIBITION TALK MASQUERADE IN THE CROSS RIVER REGION: THE NICKLIN-SALMONS COLLECTION Join art historian, Jill Salmons, and Assistant Curator Anna Young as they discuss Research and Cultural Collections’ latest exhibition. This is a unique opportunity to hear about Salmons’ first-hand experience of conducting fieldwork in Nigeria and Cameroon in the 1970s.

ROTUNDA GALLERY Aston Webb Building, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT (R6 on the campus map) FREE EVENT  BHM-oct-03

MON

1 OCT –

WED 3 OCT

7PM

20 STORIES HIGH: BLACK

SUN

7 OCT Nikki doesn’t think her Dad is a racist, but when a Zimbabwean family move in nearby, he starts laying down the law. This provocative and engaging show digs deep at the heart of racial tensions in the UK today.

MIDLANDS ARTS CENTRE Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH TICKETS TBC  Box Office 0121 446 3232 For more information:  emily.gravenor@macbirmingham.co.uk  macbirmingham.co.uk

BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

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WED 3 OCT

7:30PM – 10:30PM

WEDNESDAY MIC FEVER BLACK HISTORY MONTH SPECIAL Miss Culture Jam and team invites you all to come and join them in celebration of their Black History Month Special of edutainment. An evening of mixed genre performances in poetry, spoken word, with reggae, blues, jazz, soul and rap artists, African drumming, dance performances including salsa and cultural. Drama, live music, DJ and lots more. There will be guest speakers on the night with a special presentation by WAWI (Why Are West Indians here). Stalls are available with cultural products for sale which adds to the ambience of the evening.

MANGO LOUNGE 118 Aldridge Road, Perry Barr, Birmingham B42 2TP ADMISSION £4 For more information:  itagooden@blueyonder.co.uk  mangolounge.club.co.uk

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BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

FRI 5 OCT

6:30PM

TOWN HALL SYMPHONY HALL’S JAZZLINE PRESENTS JEAN TOUSSAINT QUINTET Grammy-winning saxophonist came to prominence when he joined Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers in 1982. Since moving to London in 1987, Toussaint has released ten critically acclaimed CDs. At this concert, Jean Toussaint will perform music from his 11th album.

ROYAL BIRMINGHAM CONSERVATOIRE 200 Jennens Road, Birmingham B4 7XR TICKETS £13  Box Office 0121 780 3333 For more information:  thsh.co.uk

Photo: Benjamin Amure

SAT 6 OCT

SAT 6 OCT

7PM

7PM

WHY AFRICAN WORLD STUDIES? A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY AND BEYOND

MILK RIVER FAMILY TREE FOUNDATION CULTURAL EVENING DINNER AND DANCE

This introductory session examines the importance of independent learning for members of the Afrikan, AfrikanCaribbean / Afrikan Diasporan Community. With the focus on the multi-level Afrikan World Studies programme this is as wonderful opportunity to find out more.

YEMANJA 1st Floor, 446 Birchfield Rd, Birmingham B20 3JG FREE EVENT For more information:  0121 356 9289  yemanjaonline.com

Three course Caribbean meal with entertainment from Vivian Jones, Christine Benjamin, Soul Singer Errol Williams, Gospel Rap from Eudina, Poetry from Cassandra & Gospel Singers Adventist Choir Erdington (ACE). Grand Raffle Prizes, LCD TV/DVD, Hotel stay, cash prize & more.

THE H SUITE 100, Icknield Port Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B16 0AA TICKETS ADULTS £45 SENIOR CITIZENS £40 CHILDREN £25 (12 years & under) To purchase tickets:  Yvonne 07940 247381  Vionel 07867 973281  Tony 07979 944089

SAT 6 OCT

8PM

UPFRONT COMEDY The UK’s fastest rising comedian, web sensation Judi Love brings her wise & witty ways to a headline slot on a bill hosted by Birmingham’s future urban hero Smash, featuring urbane Jason Patterson & this month’s new voice Deano Mac. MIDLANDS ARTS CENTRE Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH TICKETS TBC  Box Office 0121 446 3232 For more information:  macbirmingham.co.uk

BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

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SUN 7 OCT

SUN 7 OCT

11AM – 3:30PM

7:30PM

‘AN OFFICER AND A LADY’

TAKE ME BACK

An Officer and a Lady will be celebrating the contribution of African American and Caribbean service men and women during the Second World War and post war settlement in Birmingham through a number of stalls and a walk.

SOHO HOUSE MUSEUM Soho Avenue, Birmingham B18 5LB FREE EVENT  tinyurl.com/BHM-oct-07

Angie Le Mar’s gospel musical drama tells the story of two young girls whose friendship was forged whilst attending church with their mothers, but whose life experiences led them down different, separate, and painful paths, only for them to return to the church and faith of their childhood.

THE CRESCENT THEATRE 20 Sheepcote Street, Brindleyplace, Birmingham B16 8AE TICKETS £19.50  Box Office 0121 643 5858  tinyurl.com/BHM-oct-07-1

SUN 7 OCT

8PM

COAT Picture this – Nigeria: A grandmother passes.

London: a son cooks a pot of stew for his mother hoping to uncover hidden stories and unanswered questions.

COAT is the honest and emotional story of Junior.

Born in Nigeria, he leaves at the age of 9 and heads to London, leaving behind a life that he loved and was settled in.

TICKETS: £12 / £9.60 (CONCS) THE STUDIO Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Broad St, Birmingham B1 2EP  Box Office 0121 236 4455

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BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

MAKE SENSE OF THE WORLD WITH BLACK STUDIES

The first course of its kind in Europe, BA (Hons) Black Studies is a fascinating, interdisciplinary course which provides you with a deep understanding of the histories and socio-political movements of the people of the African diaspora. You will also gain a strong practical knowledge of the relevance of Black Studies to society and the workplace today.

Find out more: courseenquiries@bcu.ac.uk +44 (0) 121 331 5595 www.bcu.ac.uk/black-studies

MON 8 OCT

2:15PM

A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE: WINDRUSH 70 AND BEYOND The Kingsway Project delivers a talk on Windrush and beyond, including what things were like back in the Caribbean, why people came to the UK and reflections on aspects of life. There is also a complimentary display throughout October.

South Yardley Library Yardley Road, Birmingham B25 8LT TICKETS £3 To book tickets visit:  0121 464 1944 / 121 464 0156

TUE 9 O

CT

5PM – 7 PM

MON

8 OCT – SUN

14 OCT

AN EVENING WITH TRAVIS ALABANZA The Univ ersity of Birmin Wome

gha na hosting nd Non-Binary S m’s LGBTQ+ Asso an tu c and perf evening with T dents’ Associati iation and ravis Ala on (WAN ormer. T b h B

by Travis anza, a e event Black qu A) are w , fo e and a ch llowed by a sh ill include a poe ort talk, try perfo er poet ance to rmance ask them Univers question ity of Bir s. mingha Beorma m B Universit ar, Guild Of Stud y e Edgbast of Birmingham, nts on, Birm ingham FREE EV B15 2TT ENT  travis alabanz a.co.uk

WED 10 OCT

TOUR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM’S CADBURY RESEARCH LIBRARY: SPECIAL COLLECTIONS, AND BLACK HISTORY MONTH THEMED ARCHIVES/RARE BOOK DISPLAY Want to find out about a Special Collections archive and rare book department? Open to all. See ‘behind the scenes’ in our conservation studio and strongroom, the research facilities in our reading room. View some of the archives and rare books we hold relating to Black History.

CADBURY RESEARCH LIBRARY Muirhead Tower (LG Floor), University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT FREE EVENT TOURS limited to 12 people booking is essential To book a place email Jenny Childs:  special-collections@bham.ac.uk For more information:  Jenny Childs 0121 414 5839  birmingham.ac.uk/crl  intranet.birmingham.ac.uk/bame

WED 10

7 – 10PM

OCT

THE GREAT D EBATE TOUR T

he GDT is the firs debate forum, a t and biggest na celebrati tional heritage on a The purp nd thought-pro of diversity, vo o provide se is to empowe king discussion a . r, MPs and platform for aud educate, and ience m students e m to voice UNIVER their opin bers, S ions.

Hosted b ITY OF BIRMIN G y Afro-Ca the University o HAM ribbean Society f Birmingham’s, FREE EV ENT For more informati on:  info@ a-can.co .uk  GreatD ebateTo ur  eleva tionnetw orks.org /greatd ebateto ur/

WED 10 OCT

7PM – 11PM

BASS2018: TOOTS & THE MAYTALS Five-time Grammy nominated Toots and The Maytals are one of the all-time great reggae, ska and rocksteady groups, whose raw, gospel-infused vocals and life-affirming music has influenced countless artists over the decades.

Returning to the UK this autumn, don’t miss your chance to see such a legendary act live.

O2 INSTITUTE 78 Digbeth, Birmingham B5 6DY TICKETS £33.75 To book tickets visit:  Ticketmaster.co.uk  punchbass.com

BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

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WED 10 OCT

7.30PM

MIXTAPE

THU 11 OCT

1ST SESSION 12:30PM - 12:45PM 2ND SESSION 12:45PM – 1PM

INTRODUCTION TO THE BIRMINGHAM QUR’AN MANUSCRIPT REPLICA DISPLAY

Join dub poetry stars Nick Makoha and Roger Robinson for Mixtape – a unique show combining poetry and music.

Hear poems about music, poems about love, poems of protest and of exile, monologues and duet poems… The event will also showcase local poets Casey Bailey and Jasmine Gardosi.

TICKETS, £8 / £6.40 (CONCS) THE STUDIO Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Broad St, Birmingham B1 2EP  Box Office 0121 236 4455

THU

Hear about the story of the re-discovery of the Birmingham Qu’ran Manuscript, one of the oldest surviving Qur’an manuscript fragments in the world, through radiocarbon dating. The centrepiece of the exhibition is a replica of the original manuscript.

Exhibition by the Cadbury Research Library.

UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM Main Library Atrium University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT FREE BOOKING ESSENTIAL To book a place email Jenny Childs:  special-collections @bham.ac.uk

THU 11 OCT

6PM

BRITAIN ON FILM ON TOUR: BLACK BRITAIN

Bringing together films spanning 1901 to 1985 and taken from many different regions of the UK, Britain on Film: Black Britain offers incredibly rare, little-seen and valuable depictions of black British life on screen.

SOUTH YARDLEY LIBRARY Yardley Road, Birmingham B25 8LT FREE For more information:  0121 464 1944

11 OCT

3PM – 4:30PM

TOWN HALL SYMPHONY HALL PRESENT THE LUNCH LOUNGE WITH TEHILLAH HENRY Add some musical accompaniment to your lunch break and soak up the sound of Brum’s best singer-songwriters. Raised in Wolverhampton, Tehillah Henry is currently pursuing a career in music teaching, songwriting and composing. Her latest EP is available on iTunes.

SYMPHONY HALL CAFÉ-BAR Symphony Hall, Broad St, Birmingham B1 2EA FREE EVENT  Box Office 0121 780 3333  thsh.co.uk

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BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

FRI 12 OCT

7.30PM (6.30PM DOORS OPEN)

IN CONVERSATION WITH TOMMIE SMITH BLACK POWER SALUTE On the 50th anniversary of his and fellow athletes John Carlos protest at 1968 Olympic Games we are proud to present in conversation with Tommie Smith. His and fellow athletes John Carlos protest at 1968 Olympic Games we are proud to present In Conversation with Tommie Smith. When Olympic sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos stood atop the medal podium at the 1968 Summer Games in Mexico City, they bowed their heads and raised black-gloved fists during the playing of the national anthem, millions of their fellow Americans were outraged.

BIRMINGHAM CONSERVATOIRE Birmingham City University 200 Jennens Rd, Birmingham B4 7XR TICKETS £15 OR £10 For more information:  recognizeonline.com

SAT 13 OCT

SAT 13 OCT

11AM – 5.30PM

11AM

CARIBBEAN CULTURAL DAY

BLACK HISTORY MONTH CATHEDRAL SERVICE

The Roy Anthony Reid Foundation, a Birmingham based Charitable Trust is holding an African Caribbean themed Cultural day featuring a variety of stalls, including displays on the Windrush Generation and influential Black heroes. There will be music and a drumming workshop.

ALL SAINTS CENTRE Community Hall 2 Vicarage Road, Kings Heath, Birmingham B14 7RA FREE ENTRY More info email  royareidfoundation @gmail.com

A service to celebrate the historical and current contributions of those with black ancestry.

BIRMINGHAM CATHEDRAL Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2QB FREE EVENT For more information:  sharonp@ cofebirmingham.com

SAT 13 OCT

1PM – 3PM

BASS2018: NATIONAL ALBUM DAY – HANDSWORTH REVOLUTION 40TH ANNIVERSARY To celebrate BPI’s first national album day, Punch’s BASS Festival is highlighting the importance of Birmingham's own ‘Steel Pulse’ and their legendary debut album ‘Handsworth Revolution’.

Punch will be unveiling a celebratory public mural Handsworth Wellbeing Centre, Holly Road Handsworth, featuring the iconic album artwork followed by an in depth Q&A with original members of the band.

HANDSWORTH LIBRARY Soho Road, Birmingham B21 9DP FREE BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL  punchbase.com

17

TUE 16 OCT

8PM

7PM

TOWN HALL SYMPHONY HALL PRESENT

VERVE POETRY FESTIVAL PRESENTS TERRANCE HAYES!

MOKOOMBA

MON

Zimbabwe’s most celebrated young band Mokoomba is back with a new offering: Luyando – which means mother’s love in Tonga. Lyrical and beautifully breezy, Luyando is a spiritual journey into the heart of Zimbabwean society, culture and tradition.

TOWN HALL Victoria Square, Birmingham B3 3DQ TICKETS £5, £19.50  Box Office 0121 780 3333  thsh.co.uk

15 OCT – SUN

21 OCT

18

WED 17 OCT

BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

Terrance is here to share his stunning new Penguin poetry collection: American Sonnets For My Past and Future Assasssin, ‘Tracing the fault lines of race, gender and political oppression with a singular passion and wit, this astonishing new sequence of seventy poems swerves at will between touching domestic visions, tributes to the fallen and blistering denunciations of the enemies of the good.’ He will also be available to answer audience questions and sign copies of his book. This is a ‘must see’ poetry event in the heart of Birmingham.

WATERSTONES 24-26 High Street, Birmingham B4 7S TICKETS £5 plus fees  tinyurl.com/BHM-oct-17

WED 17 OCT 7PM

VER’S BASS2018: A NIGHT OF LOOM ROCK WITH CARROLL TH PSON

‘Queen by none other than the Live music performed ning Carroll win ard aw lti mu the f, of Lovers Rock’ hersel ember that es to be a night to rem Thompson, this promis son will be mp Tho ll rro Ca s. uld mis melodies no Lovers Rock fan sho ck Ro ers Lov most loves performing some of the le for one night only, so be sty ic in an intimate acoust rating and join Punch in celeb sure to get your tickets .

Reggae Birmingham’s love of E US HO M THE JA ingham B3 1QU 3-5 St Pauls Square, Birm TICKETS FROM £5 4 7444  Box Office 0121 22  punchbass.com

THU 18 OCT

THU 18 OCT

12:30PM

8PM

TOWN HALL SYMPHONY HALL PRESENT

TOWN HALL SYMPHONY HALL PRESENT

THE LUNCH LOUNGE WITH CALL ME UNIQUE

Add some musical accompaniment to your lunch break and soak up the sound of Brum’s best singer-songwriters. Singer / songwriter & guitarist Call Me Unique infuses the sounds of jazz, soul, futurebeats and scat-singing.

SYMPHONY HALL CAFÉ-BAR Symphony Hall, Broad St, Birmingham B1 2EA FREE EVENT  Box Office 0121 780 3333  thsh.co.uk

AT LAST: THE ETTA JAMES STORY Telling the story of soul legend Etta James’ turbulent life and featuring some of her most beloved songs. Hear Vika Bull perform Tell Mama, Sugar On The Floor, I’d Rather Go Blind and Etta’s iconic signature song At Last.

TOWN HALL Victoria Square, Birmingham B3 3DQ TICKETS £31.50 - £41.50  Box Office 0121 780 3333  thsh.co.uk

FRI 19 OCT

6PM – 9PM

ERDINGTON ARTS FORUM ‘EVENING OF CREATIVITY’ CELEBRATION OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Erdington’s Evenings of Creativity, their regular 3rd Friday of the month at Oikos Cafe, invites all artists from all backgrounds - musicians, poets, painters, crafters - for an exciting evening of entertainment and artistic expression celebrating Black History Month.

OIKOS CAFE 58 High Street, Erdington, Birmingham B23 6RH PAY AS YOU FEEL ENTRY  facebook.com/cafeartsforum

BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

19

FRI 19 OCT

FRI 19 OCT

FRI 19 OCT

7PM – 9:30PM

8PM

8PM

BRINGING THE SWING TO STIRCHLEY: AN EVENING OF EARLY AFRICAN-AMERICAN FILM AND DANCE

RUSH FEATURING THE J A REGGAE BAND

SOUL II SOUL

Celebrate 1930 & 40s AfricanAmerican film-making and the style of music introduced to the UK by black GIs at wartime dance halls such as Stirchley Ballroom, here at Stirchley Baths. The event includes our main feature – Keep Punching (1939) - black dance history film shorts and a fun (optional) swing dance lesson.

STIRCHLEY BATHS Bournville Lane, Birmingham B30 2JT TICKETS £4 (£2.50 CONCESSIONS) TO BOOK TICKETS  tinyurl.com/ stirchley-tickets For more information:  tinyurl.com/ swingtostirchley

Join us as we tell the extraordinary story of hopeful migrants as they board the SS Empire Windrush and set sail from Jamaica bringing their music with them and how Reggae went on to take the world by storm. The exciting development of reggae music that took the world by storm.

The extraordinary story of hopeful migrants seeking a better life in the Motherland, boarding the SS Empire Windrush, setting sail from Jamaica and bringing theor music with them. Nostalgia and fun, with limbo, djembe drumming, and slamming sounds.

THE CRESCENT THEATRE Sheepcote St, Brindleyplace, Birmingham B16 8AE TICKETS STANDARD £18 UNDER 16’S £10 DISABLED/CARER £8.50 Booking Fee of £1 Applicable on all tickets. Age restriction 6+ years

 Box Office 0121 643 5858  tinyurl.com/bhmreggae

20 BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

TOWN HALL SYMPHONY HALL PRESENT

TOWN HALL Victoria Square, Birmingham B3 3DQ THIS SHOW IS SOLD OUT For ticket availability:  Box Office 0121 780 3333  thsh.co.uk

SAT 20 OCT

12PM – 6PM

ARTSFRO FINE ARTS SHOW ArtsFro Fine Arts will be exhibiting and selling original paintings, wall art, collectables, jewellery and clothing.

RJJZ CAFÉ BAR Arch 24, 208 Livery Street, Birmingham, B3 1EU FREE EVENT For more information:  07779513358  artsfro@etsy.com

SAT 20 OCT

SAT 20 OCT

2PM

2.15PM

STORIES OF OMISSION BOOKLET & FILM LAUNCH

BRITAIN ON FILM ON TOUR: BLACK BRITAIN

Stories of Omission explores the representation of Black soldiers during and after the Great War. The volunteers working on this project interrogated available sources, ranging from local and national newspapers, archive collections, postcards, propaganda, film footage, biographies, literature, photography and visual arts, in order to explore the commemoration and noncommemoration of Black soldiers.

THE GALLERY LEVEL 3 The Library of Birmingham, Centenary Square, Broad St, Birmingham B1 2ND FREE BOOKING ESSENTIAL  tinyurl.com/BHM-oct-20  info@recognizeonline.com

SUN 21 OCT

2PM – 4PM

BALLET NUBIA MASTER CLASS Ballet Nubia is a fusion of traditional together with creative forms of African and Caribbean dance, drawing from ballet techniques. An intensive, uplifting and unique dance class led by UK’s leading African holistic dance practitioner - Sandra Golding MA and Dr Sandie Bourne.

For those aged 16+, with some dance experience, all levels welcome.

TICKETS £20, £15 (CONCS) ENGLISH STUDIO Midlands Arts Centre, Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, B12 9QH To book tickets:  07718660694  balletnubiauk@gmail.com  movingtubalance.co.uk

Bringing together films spanning 1901 to 1985 and taken from many different regions of the UK, Britain on Film: Black Britain offers incredibly rare depictions of Black British life on screen.

SOUTH YARDLEY LIBRARY Yardley Road, Birmingham B25 8LT FREE For more information:  0121 464 1944

SUN 21 OCT

7:30PM

TOWN HALL SYMPHONY HALL PRESENT

DARIUS RUCKER

Multi-Platinum Darius Rucker found fame with the Grammy award winning Hootie & the Blowfish. Since re-introducing himself to the world as a country artist, he has released four consecutive albums.

SYMPHONY HALL Broad St, Birmingham B1 2EA TICKETS £25.50 & £40.50  Box Office 0121 780 3333  thsh.co.uk

21

THU 25 OCT

MON

22 OCT – SUN

28 OCT

THU 25 OCT

12:45PM – 1:30PM

6PM

BLACK HISTORY MONTH: THE DANFORD COLLECTION AND MASQUERADE IN THE CROSS RIVER REGION

GARVEY'S CHILDREN

A Collection of West African Art and Artefacts. You will have the opportunity to handle important artefacts within the setting of our latest exhibition Masquerade in the Cross River Region: the Nicklin-Salmons Collection.

ROTUNDA GALLERY Aston Webb Building, University of Birmingham Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT (R6 on the campus map) FREE EVENT To book a place:  tinyurl.com/ danfordcollection For more information:  0121 414 6750

FRI 26 OCT

8PM

TOWN HALL SYMPHONY HALL PRESENT

SONS OF KEMET

Hypnotic double drum rhythms frame the colourful interplay of saxophone and tuba as original compositions are brought to life by four fiercely creative musicians.

HARE & HOUNDS 106 High Street, Birmingham B14 7JZ TICKETS £18  Box Office 0121 780 3333  thsh.co.uk

22 BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

Book Launch ‘Knowing About Marcus Mosiah Garvey and the UNIA’. An unique children’s book, teaching history and culture through rhyme.

Bring the children along to this fun and exciting official book launch. Experience an audience with the authors, a mother and daughters trio and the illustrator. Enjoy performances, stalls and competition.

HARPER BELL SCHOOL 29 Ravenhurst Street, Birmingham B12 0EJ TICKETS ADULTS ONLY £2 (redeemable against books purchased at the event) Children under 16 free.

For more information email:  knowingabout@ maarifaonline.com  nsaaevents@gmail.com

FRI 26 OCT

SAT 27 OCT

12-5PM

SMOKING BAGELS PRESENTS FIVE PERCENT COMMUNITY MARKET PLACE In celebration of Black History

Month. The Five Percent nation is an organization created by Clarence Smith, a former member of the Nation of Islam, in New York in 1964.

We will be presenting a sophisticated night of cultured music from notable artists that are followers of the Five Percent nation, such as Jay Z, Nas, Rakim, Busta Rhymes, Wu-Tang Clan, Brand Nubian, Poor Righteous Teachers and Erykah Baduh.

SMOKING BAGELS 413 Rocky Lane, Birmingham B42 1NL TICKETS £5 ON THE DOOR For more information:  07901 900865

Local entrepreneurs promoting goods & services to local people. Supporting business in the community.

Refreshments available.

BLUK BUSINESS HUB 66 Villa Rd B19 1BL FREE For more information:  07757612788  a.isaac532@ btinternet.com

SUN 28 OCT

2:30PM – 5PM

BLACK STEAM 2018 Celebrating Black brilliance and living history makers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Maths! An afternoon showcase of inspirational talks and performance, our guest speakers will take you on a journey through their personal stories of discovery, perseverance and success!

THINKTANK Birmingham Science Museum, Millennium Point, Curzon St, Birmingham B4 7XG FREE EVENT BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL To book tickets visit:  tinyurl.com/BHM-oct-28

Recognize Black Heritage and Culture (Recognize), is passionate about Black history. Since the conception of Recognize as a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2008, we have actively sought to make it become a pivotal cultural education organisation acting as a facilitator for a wide and diverse range of projects.

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TUE 30 OCT

MON

29 OCT – SUN

4 NOV

WED 31 OCT

6:30PM

4PM – 6PM

THE COLOUR OF MADNESS

BLACK BRITISH ARTS & CULTURE FAMILY WORKSHOP

The Colour Of Madness is the first book of its kind to record mental health experiences by the BAME community and be edited & curated by a BAME editorial team.

Waterstones Birmingham will be hosting an event in store to with two of the contributors to the new anthology, The Colour of Madness. With a forward by the therapist, activist and feminist, Guilaine Kinouani and, contributions from mental health sufferers, mental health workers, and psychiatrists the anthology is a powerful indictment of our failure to address the disparity between BAME mental health care and that of the white community.

WATERSTONES, BIRMINGHAM 24-26 High Street, Birmingham B4 7SL TICKETS ONLINE ONLY £3  tinyurl.com/BHM-oct-30

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A presentation and creative writing workshop on the Victorian black British actor Ira Aldridge. The workshop is suitable for children aged 10-17.

CHILDREN’S LIBRARY Library of Birmingham, Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2ND FREE EVENT You can book in person in the Children’s Library,  0121 242 4242  childrens.library@ birmingham.gov.uk For more information:  tinyurl.com/BHM-oct-31

BLACK PERFORMERS AT BIRMINGHAM’S TOWN HALL 1838

Joseph Sturge led a march from Birmingham Town Hall to Heneage Street to lay the foundations of Birmingham’s Emancipation School. There was a celebration of the abolition of the apprenticeship system, which had replaced slavery in the Caribbean.

1847

Advertisement held in the City archives for the performances of the Female American Serenaders at the Town Hall, depicts seven ‘coloured’ ladies who were musicians.

1874

FRI 2 NOV

9PM – LATE

TOUCHE’ Welcome to “Touche” a multi-cultural event taking place in a prestigious venue in the heart of Birmingham City Centre. Playing Club Classics, RnB, Trap, Bashment, House, UKG & Oldskool with JB Wassifa and Guests NUVO Brindley Place, 2 Brunswick Square B1 2LP TICKETS £10 plus booking fee For more information:  Jbwassifa@gmail.com  nuvobar.com

The Jubilee Singers, The Ex-Slave Singers of Fisk University, performed at Birmingham Town Hall. Fisk University was one of a number of educational institutions opened in the American South to provide education to former slaves.

1949

American actor, singer and activist, Paul Robeson performed at Birmingham Town Hall.

1962

Iconic musician Little Richard performs at Birmingham Town Hall.

1964

One of the pioneers of rock and roll music Chuck Berry takes to the stage at Birmingham Town Hall

1965

An American gospel festival took place at Birmingham Town Hall, as part of a European tour of American black gospel music including 'The Five Blind Boys of Mississippi' and 'Inez Andrews and the Andrewettes.'

2007

Town Hall Gospel Choir was created when Town Hall Symphony Hall recruited singers from Birmingham’s gospel communities to form a choir to participate in the re-opening concert of the newly refurbished Town Hall, featuring Handel’s Messiah: A Soulful Celebration. This uplifting gospel and soul reworking of Handel’s Messiah was performed alongside the likes of Soweto Kinch, Ruby Turner and Town Hall Associate Artists Black Voices.

2018

Born in the Caribbean and brought up in Birmingham, Joan Armatrading performs a sell-out concert at Birmingham Town Hall.

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EXHIBITIONS THE LEGACY OF INDUSTRIAL TEXTILES PROJECT 15 JUN – 15 OCT'18 11AM – 4PM

Open every Wed, Thu and first Sun of every month. Explore a heritage project that captures, interprets, and shares the ‘forgotten’ histories of African, Caribbean and South Asian communities’ and their contributions to the textiles manufacturing heritage over the past 60 years across Birmingham, Sandwell and Wolverhampton. The interviews on display have been conducted with volunteers from local communities who share their heritage story of their contribution to the textiles industry.

SOHO HOUSE MUSEUM Soho Avenue, Birmingham B18 5LB FREE EVENT  tinyurl.com/IndustrialTextiles

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MASQUERADE IN THE CROSS RIVER REGION: THE NICKLIN SALMONS COLLECTION 11 SEP'18 – 18 JAN'19 12:45PM - 1:30PM

Research and Cultural Collections presents a photography exhibition which vividly illustrates masquerade, mask art forms and artistic production. Anthropologist, Keith Nicklin, took these photographs when he and his wife, art historian Jill Salmons, conducted fieldwork in Nigeria in the 1970s.

ROTUNDA GALLERY Aston Webb Building, University of Birmingham Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT (R6 on the campus map) FREE EVENT For more information:  birmingham.ac.uk/rcc

HERE TO STAY 17 SEP – 4 OCT Here To Stay is an exhibition by Inès Elsa Dalal which highlights the impact of nurses from the Windrush generation, who helped shape the NHS since its birth 70 years ago. The exhibition is commissioned

by Sandwell & West Bromwich Hospitals NHS Trust in partnership with the University of Birmingham’s Black Asian Minority Ethnic Staff Network and Recognize Black Heritage & Culture.

MEDICINE BAKERY & GALLERY 69 New Street, Birmingham B2 4DU FREE EVENT For more information email:  info@recognizeonline.com

BASS2018: THE ART OF REGGAE EXHIBITION 4 OCT'18 – 18 OCT'19 The Art of Reggae exhibition is brought to you by Punch records and The International Reggae poster contest. Showcasing 100 reggae-inspired posters, designed by artists and illustrators from around the globe. All posters will be available to purchase via silent auction throughout the duration of the exhibition.

MEDICINE 69 New Street, Birmingham B2 4DU FREE EVENT For more information:  punchbass.com

INVENTORS OF BLACK ORIGIN BENJAMIN BANNEKER

FIRST POCKET WATCH 1753

HENRY BLAIR

BESSIE BLOUNT

SELF FEEDER FOR AMPUTEES 1951

SEED & COTTON PLANTER GEORGE ALCORN 1834 8 SPACE INSTRUMENTS 1960’S EDMUND BERGER SPARKPLUGS GEORGE CARRUTHERS 1839 SPACE/NASA INVENTIONS DR THOMAS ELKINS FRIDGE IMPROVEMENTS 1960’S 1879 OTIS BOYKIN 28 ELECTRONIC PATENTS ANDREW BEARD 1960’S RAILROAD INVENTIONS 1881 MARIE BROWN CCTV HENRY BROWN 1966 SAFE STRONGBOX 1886 PHIL BROOKS DISPOSABLE SYRINGE MIRIAM BENJAMIN 1974 HOTEL GONG 1888 VIRGIE AMMONS COOKER IMPROVEMENT SARAH BOONE IRONBOARD ATTACHMENT 1975 1892 PATRICIA BATH CATARACT LASER CHARLES BROOKS REMOVAL 1ST ROADSWEEPER 1988 1896

JOHN BURR

IMPROVED LAWNMOWER 1899

JOHN DICKINSON

IMPROVED PIANO 19TH CENTURY

ROBERT BRYANT

20 NASA INVENTIONS 1990’S

GEORGE WASHINGON CARVER

IDEAS FOR USES FOR PEANUTS IMPROVED PHOTO PRINTS 19/20TH CENTURY EMMETT CHAPPELLE 19TH CENTURY NASA RESEARCH NATHANIEL 20TH CENTURY ALEXANDER JOHN CHRISTIAN FOLDING CHAIR LUBRICANTS FOR NASA 1911 20TH CENTURY CHARLES DREW BLOOD BANK INVENTOR JANET BASHEN SOFTWARE INVENTIONS 1940’S 2006

CLAYTONIA DORTICUS

INFORMATION FROM BARBARA KING COMMUNITY JOURNALIS T

BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

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EVENTS KIZMANIA-ANGOLA KIZOMBA 6 WEEK COURSE

'MOVEMENTS OF THE EAST’ PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION BY ROY ANTHONY REID

MADIBA (HANDSWORTH) BLACK HERITAGE WALKS

2 OCT – 28 NOV 2018

1PM - 3PM

12 SEP – 17 OCT

9AM – 5PM

Learn the beautiful dance of Kizomba, often referred to as the Angolan tango.

Over the six week progressive course (suitable for absolute beginners and those with experience) you will have the opportunity to master both basic and intricate steps to allow you to shine on the dance floor.

TICKETS £36 FOR 6 WEEKS OR £8 PAY AS YOU GO NAKIRA BAR & GRILL 74 John Bright Street, Birmingham B1 1BN For more information email:  info@kizmania.co.uk  07980068165

Movements of the East offers a vibrant visual photo essay featuring images of various styles of Indian Classical, Contemporary and Folk dances captured during live performances by the Late Roy Anthony Reid, a Jamaica man whose aim was to cross cultural boundaries.

“Dazzled by the visual array of images, costumes, intricacy of movements and mysticism I have coupled this with a long standing interest in photography and art.”

LIBRARY OF BIRMINGHAM Centenary Square, Broad Street B1 2ND FREE EVENT  royareid foundation.org.uk

7PM

28 BIRMINGHAMBLACKHISTORYMONTH.CO.UK

6, 13, 20, 27 OCT Black Heritage Walks Network has researched and created a series of black heritage trails across the West Midlands, aimed at documenting the migration stories and achievements of the black community, in particular, the post-war African Caribbean community. Handsworth is historically rich with an African Caribbean presence, preceding post-war migration. Come and take a walk back in time to discover your heritage and learn about the contribution of the black community within Birmingham.

REMINISCE SOCIAL CLUB 178 Soho Hill, Handsworth B19 1AG TICKETS ADULTS £10, CHILDREN £5  tinyurl.com/BHM-madiba

BASS2018: REGGAE FILM THURSDAYS EVERY THURS THROUGHOUT OCT

7PM

Every Thursday throughout October, Punch are bringing a different Reggae film to The Mockingbird cinema, each classic accompanied by added extras such as Q&A’s and live performances.

Featuring: Rocksteady: The Roots of Reggae. The harder they come, The story of lovers rock Bruk Out! A Dancehall Queen Documentary.

MOCKINGBIRD CINEMA Mockingbird House, The Custard Factory, Gibb St, Birmingham B9 4AA FREE EVENT  Box Office 0121 224 7444

INSPIRED NUBIAN DRUMMING WORKSHOP 12 WEEK COURSE FROM OCT 2018 Ladywood Arts Forum will be delivering a Nubian drumming workshop, to help you learn the unique skills of African drumming.

AFRICAN CARIBBEAN MILLENNIUM CENTRE 339 Dudley Road, Birmingham B18 4HB More info about dates and fees email  info@ ladywoodartsforum.co.uk

PERFORMING SANKOFA (GO BACK AND FETCH) AFRICAN HOLISTIC DANCE WORKSHOP TUES 9, 16, 23, 30 OCT

7PM – 8.30PM

For those who want to feel empowered and enlightened.

Experience an uplifting moving journey through the celebration of African Holistic Dance. All abilities welcome aged 16+ yrs. Led by one of UK’s leading African Holistic Dance Practitioners – Sandra Golding (MA).

HOLY TRINITY CHURCH HALL 213 Birchfield Road, Birmingham B20 3DG PRICES £7 PER SESSION £6 (CONCS) For more information:  07718660694  movingtubalance.co.uk

Community Champions

Change lives by becoming a Diabetes UK Community Champion • Help your community improve their health by taking diabetes seriously.

• Inspire them to manage their diabetes better and reduce the risk of developing complications.

• Build up your own skills and confidence.

We’ll give you all the training and support you need to make a real difference.

Email Call or apply at

communitychampions@diabetes.org.uk 0800 138 1639 https://forms.diabetes.org.uk/CCBirmingham

Working in partnership with

The British Diabetic Association operating as Diabetes UK, a charity registered in England and Wales (no. 215199) and in Scotland (no. SC039136). © Diabetes UK 2018 1167D

/diabetesuk @diabetesUK @diabetesUK