Duration
2 hrs
Closing Date
Until October 3, 2025
Age limit
Suitable for 12+ yrs
Why Watch Black Power Desk?
- Set in 1970s London, Black Power Desk is a bold new musical that intertwines the emergence of lover’s rock and reggae with the covert operations of New Scotland Yard’s Black Power Desk.
- Penned by a powerhouse trio, Urielle Klein-Mekongo (Yvette), Gerel Falconer (Black British Theatre Award winner), and Renell Shaw (Ivor Novello winner), this show delivers lyrical fire and razor-sharp storytelling.
- Inspired by the Mangrove Nine and other key activists, the story is brought to life with an original score performed by a live band, spotlighting a powerful chapter of British history.
- Book your Black Power Desk tickets to witness a moving story of two sisters reuniting to stand against injustice and fight for their community.
Black Power Desk, in its world premiere, is a compelling original musical set against the backdrop of 1970s London, a period marked by political unrest and the rise of the Black British civil rights movement. The story centers on sisters Celia and Dina, whose bond is tested by personal loss and differing political ideologies. The production is the brainchild of an award-winning team—Urielle Klein-Mekongo, Gerel Falconer, and Renell Shaw, with direction by Gbolahan Obisesan. Together, they craft a narrative that is both intimate and expansive, highlighting the personal and political challenges faced by Black Britons during this era. The musical's original score is performed by a live three-piece band, blending R&B and reggae, underscoring the cultural vibrancy of the time.
Storyline
It’s a time of radical change - London in the 1970s is going through political unrest. Celia and Dina are two sisters on a journey amidst these situations, which reflect the broader struggles of a community grappling with systemic injustices. As the people around them confront systemic oppression and rally for change, the sisters must navigate their personal grief and ideological differences. Their story is a microcosm of a larger movement, reflecting the complexities of familial bonds and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of justice. Will their shared history be enough to bridge the divide, or will their convictions lead them further apart?
Show timings
Show timings for Black Power Desk may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & Crew
Director: Gbolahan Obisesan
Book, Lyrics and Composition: Urielle Klein-Mekongo
Lyrics and Rapperturgy: Gerel Falconer
Music/Composer: Renell Shaw
Dramaturg: Gail Babb
Age Suitability
This show is suitable for ages 12 years and above.
The production contains strong language, racialised slurs, potential depiction of violence, and suggested sexual assault. Viewer's discretion is advised.
Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Access performances: Audio described and Touch tour - Tues, Sept 9, 2025 at 7:30pm | Captioned - Tues, Sept 16, 2025 at 7:30pm | BSL Interpreted - Tues, Sept 23, 2025 at 7:30pm
Most theatres are air-conditioned year-round, so it can get a bit chilly. Bring a light jacket just in case.
Brixton House
The Brixton House is a contemporary theatre that emerged from the legacy of Ovalhouse, known for its commitment to innovative and socially relevant performances. The venue has two performance spaces, seating 180 and 120 respectively. Since its opening in 2022, the theatre has maintained its commitment to nurturing creativity and promoting diverse voices in theatre. The theatre houses two fully accessible theatres, seven flexible rehearsal rooms, and a creative hub with a large public café, providing an inclusive space for all forms of artistic expression.
Getting There
- Address: 4th floor, Brixton House, 385 Coldharbour Ln, London SW9 8GL, UK
Facilities & Accessibility
Available facilities: restrooms, bar
Accessibility: wheelchair accessible, hearing assistance, access performances, accessible restrooms, companion seating
Additional Information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets Redemption
You will receive an email with your Black Power Desk voucher. No need to print. Please carry a valid Photo Id for identification.
Cancellation & Refunds
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions
The cost of the tickets will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
The musical does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 12 years and above. The production contains strong language, racialised slurs, potential depiction of violence, and suggested sexual assault. Viewer's discretion is advised.
The show is playing at the Brixton House in London.
Black Power Desk is a gripping political drama exploring racial injustice, surveillance, and activism in 1970s Britain through the lens of a radical police unit.
The running time is 2 hours 30 minutes.
It blends powerful storytelling with live RnB and reggae music, inspired by real historical movements like the British Black Panthers and Mangrove Nine.
Yes, the musical features a live three-piece band performing an original score.
It touches on sisterhood, community activism, systemic injustice, and Black British identity in a post-colonial society.
