Sula, the Royal Court’s Living Archive researcher, takes us through a history of Black theatre at the Royal Court

As the Royal Court’s Living Archive researcher, I’ve had the privilege of delving into the rich history of Black theatre at this institution. It’s been a journey of discovery, challenge, and revelation, tracing a narrative that begins in 1958 with Errol John’s Moon on a Rainbow Shawl and continues to evolve today.

The 1960s saw Derek Walcott’s Six in the Rain (1960) bring Caribbean storytelling to the London stage. In the 1970s, UHlanga (The Reed) (1977) by James Mthoba and Robert Mshengu Kavanagh explored the resilience of the Zulu people under apartheid.

The 1980s introduced George C. Wolfe‘s provocative The Colored Museum (1987), challenging stereotypes and offering nuanced commentary on African American identity. The 1990s continued this trend with Wolfe’s Spunk (1991) and Gcina Mhlophe’s Love Child (1991), showcasing diverse Black voices and experiences.

The new millennium brought an explosion of new voices. DeObia Oparei’s Crazyblackmuthafuckin’self (2002) delved into complex identity issues, while Tarell Alvin McCraney‘s Wig Out! (2008) immersed audiences in New York’s ball culture.

The 2010s saw unprecedented diversity, with plays like Chino Odimba‘s Through Water and Stars (2015) and Selina Thompson‘s Salt (2019) pushing boundaries in form and content. Moving into the 2020s, works like Jamal Gerald’s Pastor Fi Dead (2021) demonstrate the Royal Court’s ongoing commitment to nurturing new voices.

Throughout my research, I’ve been struck by the resilience and creativity of these playwrights. The Royal Court’s role in providing a platform for these voices cannot be overstated. Bringing visibility to these works is about recognising the vital contributions of Black playwrights to British culture and ensuring future generations have access to this rich legacy.

As I continue this work, I’m convinced of the importance of preserving and celebrating these plays. They offer not just a chronicle of Black experiences across the globe, but a mirror to our society as a whole, challenging us to confront uncomfortable truths and imagine new possibilities.

Find out more information by searching our new Black Plays by Decade collection