The Theatre Royal Stratford East in London has sparked controversy by encouraging white theatregoers to stay away from a performance of the play “Tambo & Bones,” focusing on African American history.
The initiative, called “Black Out,” aims to provide a space where black audience members can enjoy the show “free from the white gaze.”
While the theatre maintained that the performance was open to all, it made it clear that the event was specifically arranged for black audience members.
The play tells the story of two African Americans, tracing their journey from minstrels to rappers, ultimately joining the Marxist Black Lives Matter movement.
In response to the exclusionary nature of the event, Festus Akinbusoye, Britain’s first black police and crime commissioner (PCC), criticized the decision.
Akinbusoye emphasized the importance of sharing and understanding each other’s cultures and stories, believing that the concept of a “Black Out” contradicts this educational and enriching ethos.
He shared his experience attending theater performances, such as “Hamilton,” where people from diverse races and cultures came together to enjoy the show.
Matthew Xia, the director of the play’s British run, defended the need for a white-free evening, explaining that such private and safe spaces for black theatregoers have been created in the US and the UK.
According to Xia, “Tambo & Bones” explores the complexity of black performance in relation to the white gaze, making it essential to create a space like the “Black Out” event.
The theatre itself also stood by the decision, describing “Black Out” as an initiative for congregation, celebration, and healing.
The spokesperson highlighted that the play is a bold satire that actively explores race and the black experience.
The decision to embrace the “Black Out” initiative for one performance during the play’s month-long run was made to provide a community experience for black audiences.
