FOR BLACK BOYS WHO HAVE CONSIDERED SUICIDE WHEN THE HUE GETS TOO HEAVY to transfer to Royal Court

Photo credit: Guy J Sanders

London’s Royal Court Theatre has announced a transfer of the New Diorama Theatre and Nouveau Riche production of For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy, running in the Jerwood Theatre Downstairs from 31 March-30 April.

Written and directed by Ryan Calais Cameron, and co-directed by Tristan Fynn-Aiduenu, it will star the original cast comprising of Emmanuel Akwafo, Mark Akintimehin, Nnabiko Ejimofor, Darragh Hand, Aruna Jalloh and Kaine Lawrence.

For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy was conceived by Cameron in the wake of the killing of Trayvon Martin in 2013, and was developed over several years, with further support from co-commissioner Boundless Theatre, including workshops with young black men and mental health groups. It saw a sell-out run at New Diorama Theatre in October and November 2021. 

The play follows six young Black men who meet for group therapy, and let their hearts and imaginations run wild. It is located on the threshold of joyful fantasy and brutal reality: a world of music, movement, storytelling and verse, where six men clash and connect in a desperate bid for survival.

The production features set and costume design by Anna Reid, lighting by Rory Beaton, sound by Nicola Chang, movement by Theo Oloyade, and musical direction by John Falsetto.

Ryan Calais Cameron said: “This transfer will be a huge cultural event and landmark for Nouveau Riche and our community, to see the words ‘For Black Boys… in bright lights in the centre of Sloane Square.” There will be a post-show talk with Cameron on Tuesday 26 April 2022.

Tickets go on sale for Priority bookers on 31 January, and on general sale from 2 February here.