Join playwrights, theatre-makers and poets Emily Momoh, Nicole Aquah and Nelissa Mendy for 5 days of fun (and free) creative workshops. We’ll uncover local Black British history and explore our creativity based on the figure of Billy Waters - a famous disabled, African street performer who busked in London in the 1880s. Hidden Voices commemorates the bicentenary of his death in 1823.
For 15-19 year olds at Old Diorama Arts Centre. Free breakfast included.
Mon 13th - Fri 17th Feb (February half term) from 10:30 - 13:00. Free early bird breakfast 10:00-10:30.
We’ll use creative exercises designed to help you build confidence and have fun. We’ll look at how we can use creativity - writing, spoken word poetry and performing - to explore Billy Waters and the themes around his life.
This is an opportunity open to people aged 15-19 with an interest in creative writing. It is free to join these workshops. These workshops are open to everyone but we actively encourage applications from those who identify as Black, Disabled and/or those with disability close to their lives e.g. as a young carer.
We’ll allocate spaces on a first come first served basis. If you have any questions about these workshops, please get in touch at: artistproducer@cptheatre.co.uk
About Billy Waters
Billy Waters was a disabled African street performer who worked on the Strand and in St Giles Camden in the 1800s. Billy became somewhat of a celebrity at the time, known for busking, singing and playing his violin to entertain crowds outside the Drury Lane and Adelphi Theatres. He was ultimately exploited for his celebrity and died penniless.
