Following a series of sold-out performances, Barbershop Uncut Stories comes to Reading this Black History Month with a powerful theatre production exploring Black men’s health, family, masculinity and the conversations that can help save lives.
Set inside the familiar surroundings of a busy local barbershop, the production follows a group of friends whose everyday conversations about football, family and relationships gradually reveal something much more serious. Through authentic storytelling inspired by real lived experiences, the play opens up conversations about prostate cancer, men’s health and the importance of early diagnosis.
At the heart of the production is an issue of particular importance to Black communities. According to the event organisers, prostate cancer affects one in four Black men, yet conversations about men’s health can remain difficult because of stigma, fear, mistrust and reluctance to talk openly about illness.
Barbershop Uncut Stories uses theatre to help break that silence. Rather than presenting health information as a lecture, the production places important messages within recognisable conversations, relationships and experiences. Warmth, humour and heartfelt moments are used alongside more serious discussions to encourage audiences to think differently about their own health and the wellbeing of the men in their families and communities.
The barbershop provides a particularly fitting setting. For generations, barbershops have been important social and community spaces where people meet, exchange news, debate issues and talk about everyday life. By bringing conversations about cancer and health into this environment, the production aims to make subjects that can sometimes feel uncomfortable easier to discuss.
The evening does not end when the performance finishes. Audiences will also be invited to take part in an after-show panel discussion featuring healthcare professionals, providing an opportunity to explore the issues raised during the play, ask questions and learn more about cancer awareness, men’s health, early diagnosis and the importance of understanding family health history.
The event is open to everyone. Audiences are encouraged to attend with friends, family members, colleagues, community groups or even their barber. Whether coming for an evening of theatre, to support someone they care about or simply to learn more about men’s health, the production aims to ensure people leave with something to think about — and, importantly, something to talk about.
Barbershop Uncut Stories is an innovative Creative Health production using theatre to engage communities in conversations about cancer awareness and early diagnosis. By combining authentic storytelling with expert health information, the project seeks to challenge myths, reduce stigma and empower individuals to take positive action for themselves, their families and their wider communities.
Delivered in partnership with Thames Valley NHS Cancer Alliance, this Black History Month performance at Reading Rep Theatre combines culture, community and health awareness in an accessible and engaging way, creating space for conversations that could make a genuine difference.
Please note: The performance explores themes of cancer and illness, and some content may be sensitive for audience members. The event is suitable for ages 18 and over.
More Berkshire Listings MORE
Barbershop Uncut Stories
Following a series of sold-out performances, Barbershop Uncut Stories returns with a powerful live theatre experience exploring Black…
Barbershop Uncut Stories
Following a series of sold-out performances, Barbershop Uncut Stories comes to Reading this Black History Month with a…