The world premiere of the musical is set to run at the theatre until the 28th September.
WhatsOnStage: ***** “This nostalgic show surely deserves a West End transfer, especially with the authenticity of its actors – including Alexander Bellinfantie, Tomos Eames, Fahad Shaft, and Chanté Faucher. It’s unapologetic, informative portrayal of Black love, Black power and a forgotten but hugely important aspect of Black British history. Black Power salute to all involved. Essential viewing.”
Brixton Buzz.com: “Klein-Mekongo and her creative have devised a rousing, dynamic and important piece of work that educates, without being heavy handed; brings moments of real joy (just wait for Tomos Eames’ courtship of Celia!) and delivers a powerful finale that brought the entire audience to their feet.”
The Stage: *** “New musical exploring the Black Power movement in 1970s Britain is performed with fervour.”
Everything Theatre: ***** “As the audience, bring your attention and energy – this is a production that engages us to vote, to share opinion, carry a beat and rise to our feet in applause for this brave and powerful show. We witness the struggles for inclusion and visibility, the depiction of masculinity, misogyny and paradigms of justice. Catch your breath if you can, as this fast-paced, multi-talented production schools us all. “Breathe – and don’t ask for permission.””
All That Dazzles: ***** “Urielle Klein-Mekongo, even where collaborating with her colleagues, has brought such a singular vision, such an extraordinary sense of clarity and purpose, that the final product is too bold, too audacious, too essential to be dismissed.”
Musical Theatre Review: *** “As the play progresses into Act II, the songs and raps become more political, especially after a protest turns violent. Klein-Mekongo’s script is clear that the violence is instigated at the behest of the police, so that Pullen can justify his arrests. This plot point has roots in truth, as does the prospect of the police having paid informers working undercover, but some of what the book presents as big twists feel more like hackneyed tropes.”
Theatre & Tonic: **** “Black Power Desk is a wonderfully important show, which celebrates but also educates, and it was a privilege to learn from this motivated performance.”
The Reviews Hub: *** 1/2 “Like the protests it depicts, Black Power Desk may not have every niche of its argument perfectly honed, but it’s not afraid to sing what needs to be sung and shout what needs to be said. It’s refreshing, it’s important, and it’s a great night out.”
British Theatre Guide: “The pacing felt occasionally leisurely sentimental, and the show’s political events are defined in broad brush strokes, but it never lost the audience’s attention.”
To book tickets visit: https://brixtonhouse.co.uk/shows/black-power-desk/