My White Best Friend (and Other Letters Left Unsaid)

Synopsis

My White Best Friend (And Other Letters Left Unsaid) is a powerful and provocative theatrical anthology curated by writer Rachel De-Lahay and director Milli Bhatia. Originally commissioned by The Bunker Theatre and later presented by the Royal Court Theatre, this festival of letters features contributions from some of the most compelling voices in contemporary theatre.

The premise revolves around writers penning deeply personal letters they have never voiced before, particularly addressing their white friends and loved ones. These letters delve into themes of racial tension, microaggressions, emotional labour, and the unspoken burdens carried by people of colour. Each letter is read aloud by actors who encounter the text for the first time on stage, creating a raw and spontaneous performance that heightens the emotional impact.

The setting for these performances often transforms the theatre into an interactive space, resembling a warehouse party with a DJ and a bar, fostering a more relaxed and inclusive atmosphere. This dynamic environment encourages the audience to engage directly with the content, blurring the lines between performance and reality.