West End welcomes new cast for For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy
Casting has been announced for the West End return of the double Olivier Award-nominated play For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy.
The production, opening at the Garrick Theatre for a limited nine-week run from 29 February to 4 May 2024, welcomes Tobi King Bakare, Shakeel Haakim (making his professional debut), Fela Lufadeju, Albert Magashi, Mohammed Mansaray and Posi Morakinyo, taking on the roles of Onyx, Pitch, Jet, Sable, Obsidian and Midnight, respectively.
Ryan Calais Cameron’s award-winning play, inspired by Ntozake Shange’s seminal work For Coloured Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf, is set to be directed by Cameron himself. The play offers a blend of music, movement, storytelling, and verse, exploring themes of fatherhood, love, heritage, and resilience among six young Black men in a group therapy setting.
Ryan Calais Cameron, writer and Nouveau Riche Artistic Director, said: “The themes explored in the play are timeless, and I am genuinely thrilled about the prospect of witnessing the new cast infuse their own unique energy and brilliance into the production.
“Each member brings a wealth of talent and dedication to their roles, and I am confident that their interpretation will breathe new life into the narrative.”
The production team also includes Theophilus O. Bailey for movement direction and choreography, John Pfumojena for musical direction and vocal arrangement, Nicola T. Chang for sound design and composition, Anna Reid for set and costume design, Rory Beaton for lighting design, and Tatenda Shamiso as associate director. Isabella Odoffin is responsible for casting.
The play, which delves into the experiences and challenges faced by young Black men, was initially conceived by Ryan Calais Cameron following the killing of Trayvon Martin in 2012. It has since been developed with input from young Black men and mental health groups.
Originally commissioned by the New Diorama Theatre and co-commissioned by Boundless Theatre, the play has enjoyed significant success, including a sold-out run at the New Diorama Theatre, its transfer to the Royal Court Theatre, and its initial West End run at the Apollo Theatre. Garnering critical acclaim and public adoration, it attracted notable fans such as John Boyega, David Harewood, and Daniel Kaluuya.
With a commitment to accessibility, 25% of all tickets will be priced at £25 or under. The play, shortlisted for Best New Play and Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the 2023 Olivier Awards, promises a powerful and transformative theatrical experience.
