This month Cultured Bohemian has curated a list of London-based global majority centered events happening this month to get you through the month. With events on screen, stage, exhibitions, and talks, there is an event for everyone.⁠

SCREEN

Satu – the year of the rabbit
Bathway Theatre, University of Greenwich
5th October
19:30 – 22:00

When a bomb endangers the Pha Tang temple, ‘Satu’ an orphan child laborer decides to head north through the rich and feral landscape of Laos in search of his long lost mother with his new photojournalist friend ‘Bo’.

WHEN NEWBURY RULED
Curzon Hoxton
6th October
11:00 – 12:00

The story of how a youth club kicked down barriers in the 70s following their journey to football greatness. The film looks at the lasting impact they had on the community and interviews team members and community members from that time.

The Kukus of Ijebu-Ode: A Family Portrait | UK Premiere
Courthouse Hotel
13th October
16:30 – 18:30

 A compelling documentary that follows the incredible journey of the Kuku family, established by their 19th-century warlord ancestor, Balogun Bello Kuku. This event offers a unique opportunity to delve into the story of one of Nigeria’s most influential families, showcasing their rich history, culture, and traditions.

UK Premiere: Ol’ Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys + Q&A
BFI Southbank
24th October
18:10

 The tale of Russell Tyrone Jones’ hip-hop superhero alter-ego and tragic icon.

Film Africa 2024
Various Locations
25th October to 3rd November
Various Times

The Royal African Society is delighted to announce that Film Africa, one of the most anticipated and celebrated showcases of African cinema in Europe. This year’s festival promises an exhilarating array of films, virtual events, director Q&As, panel discussions, professional workshops, master classes, school screenings, and family activities.

Film Africa 2024: She Speaks
South London Gallery
26th October
18:00 – 21:00

This short film programme will delve into and reveal the often-overlooked experiences and cultures that shape the identity of African women. A showcase of women’s empowerment, celebrations, struggles, iconic moments, and historical milestones captured through film.

Beyond the Photo Documentary Screening + Q&A with Director Cathy Hassan
Minet Library
28th October
19:00 – 20:30

Tracing the journey of a photo depicting two young friends in the 1970s, the photo is revisited decades later to chronicle the personal stories that help shape Black British history. 

Film Africa 2024: Animation
South London Gallery
Wed 30 Oct 2024
18:00 – 21:00

This series of shorts brings together a dynamic collection of animated films from across Africa, showcasing the power of animation to tell compelling stories. From Tanzania to Egypt, Senegal to Ethiopia, these films explore myths, histories, culture and deeply personal journeys through vibrant and imaginative visuals.

Three the Hard Way + intro by Ti Singh
BFI Southbank
30th October
18:15

A trio of Blaxploitation genre heroes assemble to fight a white supremacist group bent on poisoning the Black population of major US cities.

Dead Fun
Ritzy Cinema and Cafe
31st October
18:30 – 21:00

A dark comedy-horror exploring serious youth violence… 

STAGE

Housemates 2024: A Night With Hennessy Jade
Brixton House
1st – 5th October
Various Times

A Mixed-race female comedian’s stagnant career turns upside down after she tells a single joke, spiralling into chaos and self-discovery.

Shifters
Duke of York’s Theatre
12th August – 12th October 
Various Times

Years later, Des and Dre come crashing back into each other’s lives, carrying new secrets and old scars. With the clock counting down until Des has to leave again, memories of their teen years collide with their present and they’re forced to question if destiny has brought them back together for a reason.

Housemates 2024: How British Eres Tu?
Brixton House
2nd – 5th October 
Various Times

Follow the life journey of a migrant who came from the high altitude of the Andes as a young person, embraced the cultural change in Brixton, and now is conflicted on how to identify himself. Is he Bolivian? Is he Latino? Is he British or what is he?

Princess Essex
Globe Theatre
3rd – 26th October 
19:30

A fast-paced, music-filled, empowering comedy based on the incredible true story of the first woman of colour to enter a beauty pageant in the UK.

SO, THIS IS WHAT HAPPENED
Omnibus Theatre
4th October 
19:00

Six people tell a true story.

Jackie Fabulous – Full Circle
The Bill Murray
7th October 
20:00 – 21:00 

Jackie Fabulous has been carving her place in comedy in her native America since being a semi-finalist in America’s Got Talent, even getting Simon Cowell to blush! 

Nabil Abdulrashid: Work In Progress
The Bill Murray
7th October 
21:30 – 22:30 

Award-winning comedian Nabil Abdulrashid presents an hour of new material.

I am Leah
Camden People’s Theatre
8th – 12th October 
19:15

Fictional narrative and dark humour meet real-life testimony in a new play by: Jessica Hagan (Writer of hit sell-out QUEENS OF SHEBA) & Jo Ingabire Moys (Screenwriter of BAFTA-nominated BAZIGAGA).

A Raisin in the Sun
Lyric Hammersmith Theatre
8th October – 2nd November
Various Times

In a rented apartment on Chicago’s South Side, the Younger family is full of hope, dreams, grief, and big plans. Their beloved father has died, and the money from his life insurance policy could change their lives.

Mamela Nyamza: HATCHED ENSEMBLE
Barbican
9th – 12th October
20:15

Clad in stunning costume creations, the dancers challenge gender norms whilst juxtaposing references to Western classical dance and music with South African vocals. HATCHED ENSEMBLE is the extension of Mamela Nyamza’s original and highly acclaimed solo work Hatched created in 2007, an autobiographical work where the choreographer reflected on her life as a mother, lesbian and artist.

Statues
Bush Theatre
9th October – 9th November
Various Times

Days after his father’s passing, English teacher Yusuf discovers a dusty mixtape that changes everything he knew about a man who barely spoke.

Housemates 2024: Limp Wrist & The Iron Fist
Brixton House
9th – 12th October 
20:45

A vibrant celebration of Black, queer identities, exploring themes of love, resilience, and self-discovery.

Black History Arts Movement at Jazz re:freshed
Ninety One Living Room
10th October 
19:00

Inspired by Robin D. G. Kelley’s ‘Freedom Dreams’, B.H.A.M. tells the stories of Black Liberation. In an honouring of the ancestors, each composition pays tribute to a group who, in the spirit of Sankofa, we could learn lessons from today.

Shaé Universe
Islington Assembly Hall
11th October 
19:00

Shaé weaves her spirituality, faith and sensuality through her work. Shaé is an artist who can both sing and rap, has been co-signed by the likes of Lalah Hathaway, Jorja Smith and Little Simz and has remained entirely independent – navigating the industry on her own terms.

The Golden Stool, or the story of Nana Yaa Asantewaa
Barbican
14th October
19:30

Interweaving singing, dance, and cutting-edge theatre, Gorges Ocloo’s ground-breaking AfrOpera re-examines Nana Yaa Asantewaa’s defiant stance against colonialism and cultural appropriation.

MOONGATE MIX
Omnibus Theatre
14th October 
19:00

Mythical female ghost of vengeance in Southeast Asian folklore

MULATTO BOY
Omnibus Theatre
15th October – 3rd November
Various Times

Huvi’s always seen himself as a member of the three lions unfortunately not everyone else feels the same way

LIVE COMEDY NIGHT: JOSH WELLER + GUESTS
Peckham Levels
17th October 
19:00

Recently hand picked by Fred Armisen to be his opener, Josh Weller is a failed musician turned comedian, viral content maker, comic book author and podcast host. He was born in England, raised in Malaysia and now lives in London.

Sahāya
The Forge at The Lower Third
17th October 
19:00

Sahāya is a platform dedicated to celebrating and uplifting female and nonbinary musicians and artists from BIPOC Backgrounds. We recognize that the music industry has long been exclusionary, with BIPOC communities facing difficulties in accessing resources. Sahāya creates community and connection through music performance opportunities, workshops, and meet-ups.​

James Trickey: Don’t Count On Me (WIP)
The Bill Murray
17th October 
21:45 – 22:45 

What happens when a chartered accountant and mathematics graduate throws it all away for a comedy career? In a show about risk and expectations, join award winning new act James Trickey as he works towards a hotly anticipated debut show! 

A Night with Chidimma and Friends in Colours
Colours Hoxton
18th October 
18:30

Gotobeat is excited to team up with Colours Hoxton to present a Night with Chidimma and Friends.

Spit nights x Groove Verse – poetry x improv jazz
Colours Hoxton
19th October 
19:00

Improvised Jazz and Spoken Word Night.

The Halfway Kid
Lafayette
20th October 
19:00

Live music.

RAW: Uncensored Storytelling and Live Music
The Little Violet Door
22nd October 
18:30

Every RAW centres around uncensored storytelling by everyday people, paired with live music and art – curated around a chosen theme.

Why a Black Woman Will Never Be Prime Minister
Camden People’s Theatre
22nd October – 9th November
Various Times

Set over nine months, this piece delves into intersectionality, British politics, and Black women’s maternal health. Fusing satire, spoken word, and narrative, Zakiyyah Deen’s debut play directly addresses the real reasons: Why A Black Woman Never Be Prime Minister.

LOUNGE ONYX
Omnibus Theatre
24th October 
19:45

Black Generations
Royal Ballet & Opera
26th October 
Various Times

This mixed programme celebrates past, present and future generations of Black and Brown ballet dancers. 

DOUBLE BILL – 3 MINUTES INSIDE MY BRAIN & ANGRY YELLOW WOMAN
Omnibus Theatre
26th October 
19:00

This solo show will be wildly serious, with songs, silly dancing, and absurdist observations about doing your best.

Ghetts Presents: An Evening of Poetry and Music
Southbank Centre
27th October 
19:30

The British rap icon, this year’s London Literature Festival co-curator, brings together some of the most exciting names in the London poetry and music scenes.

Legacy
Royal Ballet & Opera
29th – 31st October 
Various Times

A celebration of Black and Brown excellence in ballet.

EXHIBITION

Annabelle Agbo Godeau: What Have You Done with Her? (Part 2)​
Alice Amati 
6th September – 5th October
Various Times

Dainah La Métisse serves as the jumping-off point for the body of work in Agbo Godeau’s solo show, What Have You Done with Her? (Part 2), which follows a longstanding interest of the French-born artist in drawing from film and photography in her oeuvre to explore questions around identity. 

Mudproof London by Olayanju Dada
Barbican
1st – 26th October
Various Times

The exhibition is a series of curated narrative collages that highlights the paradoxical essence and influence of London in unlikely places, as an ideal, a dream, a barrier or even a destination. 

AKANSA by Donald Baugh
Vessel Gallery
1st – 31st October
Various Times

Opening to coincide with Black History Month, this is the first solo exhibition by Donald Baugh, a designer-maker in wood. Key works on display will include a series of vessel-shaped, non-functional sculptures in different wood species. The runic designs with which some are engraved derive from Baugh’s realisation that ‘indigenous people from around the world used the same tools, and you see a repetition of patterns.’

Yuko Shiraishi: Through
Annely Juda Fine Art 
26th September – 2nd November 
Various Times

Through presents a series of exquisite recent paintings and a major new architectural installation; ‘Bunk Bed Odyssey – Parallel Lullaby’.

Nobuyoshi Araki: Hanaguruma II
Hamiltons
4th September – 9th November 
Various Times

The exhibition comprises of twenty unique and largely unseen sumi ink drawings displayed alongside a selection of important polaroid photographs that explore the centrality of the female figure in the artist’s practice.

ALEXIS PESKINE: Forest Figures
October Gallery
3rd October – 9th November
Various Times

Forest Figures delves into the rich, healing powers inherent in ancestral African spirituality; exploring deeper aspects of interiorised abundance and wellbeing found amongst the individual figures he portrays to represent the diversity of the African diaspora.

Pioneers of Black British Ballet
Royal Ballet Opera
30th September–10th November
Various Times

The Black British Ballet project celebrates the achievements of Black dancers in British ballet in an insightful new exhibition in the Linbury Theatre foyer.

Seeing Differently
Autograph London
18th April – Winter 2024
Various Times

Photographs from Autograph’s collection reflecting on the act of ‘seeing’ and of ‘being seen’.

Haegue Yang: Leap Year
Hayward Gallery
9th October – 5th January 2025
Various Times

A world of inventive, immersive and multisensory installations and sculptures that weave connections between disparate histories, cultures and traditions.

TALK

Who’s That Girl? A Night in with Eve
Online
26th September – 10th October
Various Times

Easy come, easy go, but Eve gon’ be lastin’. Join Grammy-award-winning MC and Hip Hop legend, Eve, for a historic night celebrating the release of her memoir, Who’s That Girl?. 

An Evening with Gary Younge
Kiln Theatre
14th October
19:00

Gary Younge has had a ringside seat during the biggest events in modern Black history: accompanying Nelson Mandela on his first election campaign, joining revellers on the southside of Chicago during Barack Obama’s presidential election victory, entering New Orleans days after Hurricane Katrina, covering the rise of Black Lives Matter and interviewing prominent figures including Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Maya Angelou and Stormzy.

Danez Smith: Bluff
Southbank Centre
26th October
15:00

Bluff is a new collection about the year that the world’s gaze turned to Minneapolis – Smith’s own home.

Ekow Eshun: The Strangers
Southbank Centre
31st October
19:45

British-Ghanaian writer, editor and curator Ekow Eshun shares his remarkable new book about five extraordinary Black men – and the worlds that made them.

Hanif Kureishi: Shattered
Southbank Centre
31st October
19:30

A diary of a life in pieces: the author launches his extraordinary memoir about the accident that left him paralysed, in conversation with Mishal Husain.

Jordan Stephens: Avoidance, Drugs, Heartbreak and Dogs
Southbank Centre
23rd October
19:45

The writer and performer introduces his candid, moving memoir, exploring masculinity, mental health, addiction and heartbreak.

EVENTS

Race Today: Black History is British History
Black Cultural Archives
4th October – 2nd February 2025
10:00 – 17:00

This exhibition explores the profound legacy of the Race Today journals, with a focus on the influential period from 1973 to 1988 when the Race Today Collective spearheaded its publication. ‘Race Today: Black History is British History’ showcases how the journal tackled transnational issues, serving as a critical platform for conversations about both British and global conflicts, while continually pushing boundaries by uncovering the dynamics behind these movements.

LANGUAGES THROUGH MUSIC
Peckham Levels
5th October
14:00 – 17:00

Join us in celebrating World Teachers’ Day and 10 years of learning Languages through Music with a lovely and laidback creative gathering!

Black Culture Market
Department Store
5th – 6th October
11:00 – 17:00

Black Culture Market supports emerging entrepreneurs & new black businesses of African & Caribbean descent with opportunities to showcase and sell their products in the retail industry.

BORN::FREE presents: 2024 Writers’ Collective Showcase
South London Gallery
10th October
 19:00 -22:30

Eleven Afro-diasporic writers based in London and the South-East. The group met for sessions with BORN::FREE’s Co-Directors and with each other to connect and reflect on their writings.

Black Stories of Survival
Katakata
10th October
12:00 – 14:00

We’re kicking off Black History Month with a lunchtime workshop exclusively for the Black community exploring our everyday stories of survival, including the stories of our friends, families and our ancestors. Storytelling has been an ancient practice across Africa and the Caribbean that has been central to our physical and mental wellbeing, so we will be unapologetically honouring our lived experience and the wisdom that has come from it.

BRUNCH: Afrobeats Brunch
Gantry Hotel
12th October
12:00 – 16:00

Experience a vibrant Afrobeats brunch like no other, where the pulsating rhythms of Africa set the stage for an unforgettable afternoon. Koyesax and The Fortune Collective Band bring your favorite Afrobeats hits to life, seamlessly blending old-school legends like Fela and Lagbaja with modern chart-toppers such as Davido, Wizkid, and Rema. As the music energizes the atmosphere, indulge in a curated selection of African-inspired dishes, each bite enhancing the dynamic sounds of the live performance. This brunch series is a celebration of culture, flavor, and music, creating a perfect harmony between the rich heritage and contemporary vibes of Afrobeats.

Sweet Honey in the Rock 50th Anniversary
Barbican
13th October
19:00

Ever vibrant, versatile and relevant, the African American vocal ensemble mark their 50th anniversary with a celebration that honours its storied past. 

Black History Month Sip and Paint
BOXPARK Shoreditch
15th October
19:00 – 23:00

Your choice of a pre-drawn afrocentric images with mixed media or blank CANVAS for you to create your own masterpiece. Celebrate Black History Month with us for Vibes on Vibes Sip and Paint Session.

Jidè Kuti with Tara Flanagan Live at Folklore
Folklore Hoxton
16th October
07:30

Jidé Kuti, known for his unique blend of pop and soul, captivates with quirky lyrics, soulful vocals, and catchy melodies. Inspired by John Mayer, Jon Bellion, Olivia Dean, Ed Sheeran, and Disney, Jidé offers a sound that’s both familiar and fresh. He has performed at The Ned, Lambeth Country Show, Westminster Abbey, and the Roundhouse, showcasing his confidence and engaging stage presence.

The OV Battle
Brixton House
28th – 29th October
18:00

ODD VENTURE returns this Autumn with a two day dance event.

For the Culture: Celebrations of Blackness
Lyric Hammersmith Theatre
24th – 26th October
Various Times

A festival honouring Blackness through art, performance, conversation, love, and joy.

SCULPT & SIP EXPERIENCE
Market Halls
26th October
15:30

We aim to encapsulate GOOD VIBES AND GOOD MUSIC!

London Boat Cruise x AfrobeatsnBrunch (episode 1)
Tower Millenium Pier
26th October
13:00

Our resident Hosts and Djs give you REAL music from across the decades, taking you back further than your Father’s hairline to the 2023 bangers.

If you have attended any of these venues and/or events, please leave a comment to talk about your experience. Make sure to book and be part of the culture.⁠