Who is Onyeka
The Whirlwind and the Storm - the
play
THE WHIRLWIND AND THE STORM
THE LIFE AND TIMES OF MARCUS GARVEY
Whirlwind and the Storm premiered on Tuesday 2nd October 2001, opening Black History Month. Our run of 14 days began at the Cochrane Theatre. Our second run at the Shaw Theatre from Thursday 18th October – Sunday 21st October 2001. It is our intention to take it nationally and internationally before returning to London next year.
On August 17 1887, in St Ann’s Bay Jamaica, a male child is born to a poor but respectable Jamaican family, rather short for his age and with a pronounced broad chin, he struggles under the discipline of school, fights openly and generally breaks all the rules. His name is Marcus Garvey. Blessed with a desire for travel and adventure he embarks on a worldwide journey, and becomes appalled by the treatment of black people. On his return he vows to set up an organisation to represent their interests. He decides to travel to the USA to raise money, intending on staying for five months, he ends up staying for five years. Now in the USA, he is full of energy and vigour with the world at his feet - but he does not realise his troubles have only just begun… This is the story of his life and his times.
This is the first of a series of pioneering and dynamic productions, focussed on past and present Black heroes and heroines, fusing dance, music and drama, in a myriad of colour, splendour, tragedy and hope. We present, previously unseen material, taking us to the smells, look and sounds of four continents, the world of the 1920’s where Marcus Garvey’s lived.
Nubian Eye are available to host tailor-made drama-led youth workshops used to support the teaching and discussion of Black history. Our workshops are aimed at raising the level of cultural awareness amongst participants, through creatively challenging assumptions on issues such as identity, self-determination and the will to succeed.
For details call Afua on 020 8808 7547 / 07956 337 391 or email: thinktank27@hotamail.com
Related website: The whirlwind