The Poll

What would you like to see more of at The Drum?

Subscribe to the RSS Feed

Black Atlas

Press Release

BLACK ATLAS

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Thu 22 Feb & Fri 23 Feb,

£9 (£7) advance (Early Bird Discount–book before Fri 9 Feb all tickets £5*)

“LSW works at the highest level. What is impressive is the commitment of the entire company and its rare passion for language.” Michael Billington, THE GUARDIAN.

The London Shakespeare Workout (LSW) brings its new production, Black Atlas, to The Drum for two nights only in Feb 2007. This original work marks the Bicentenary Anniversary of the Abolition of the slave trade in the British Empire 25th March, 1807. The production is inspired by George McDonald Fraser’s celebrated novel, Black Ajax. This historical novel is based on the true story of Tom Molineaux, a former slave who won his freedom in a boxing match, then travelled to England, refined his skills, and almost became the first black champion.

Spanning three continents, Black Atlas incorporates key figures from this period, an original score and a healthy dose of Regency slang – performed by an all-male ensemble of respected professional performers and ex-offenders, and backed by prestigious support from the likes of Kenneth Branagh, Kevin Spacey and Al Pacino, LSW have garnered praise for their socially inclusive work which delivers theatrical experiences of the highest order.

LSW’s tour of BLACKING IAGO was a huge success in 2006, which featured two of their distinguished actors – Fabian Spencer (Tom Molineaux) and Darren Raymond (William Richmond). Now released from prison, both have become successful actors, making their West End debuts at The Theatre Royal Haymarket to much praise and respect.

The response to the development of BLACK ATLAS has been ecstatic, so join us as contemporary Britain reflects on the struggles of the past, the progress we have made and also the challenges to come.

Ends

MEDIA CONTACT: Sati Parmar on 0121 333 2404 – s.parmar@the-drum.org.uk

Notes to Editors: –

  • Interview -Chair of LSW’s Executive Committee, Gayle Hunnicutt (who many of you may remember from TV’s legendary ‘Dallas’ series) is available in regard to BLACK ATLAS and LSW’s work.

  • Interviews with the actors who are playing Tom Molineaux (Fabian Spencer) and William Richmond (Darren Raymond) can be arranged. Both were featured on BBC2’s ‘Culture Show’.

  • LSW (London Shakespeare Workout) is a nationally registered charity.

  • Black Atlas was first piloted at LSW’s London home, the Intermission Theatre at St. Saviour’s in Knightsbridge in November 2005.

  • 2007 also marks LSW’s 10th Anniversary season. The London Shakespeare Workout (LSW), (founded by Dr. Bruce Wall and Dame Dorothy Tutin in 1997).

  • Over the past decade the LSW have interacted with over 9,000 inmates, supported by over 12,000 professional actors including A-list International association from Claire Bloom and Fiona Shaw to Kenneth Branagh and Al Pacino.