Melissa Thompson is a food writer and recipe developer based in London, of Jamaican and Maltese heritage, she is a former newspaper journalist and restaurateur. She has written for BBC Good Food, The Guardian, Condé Nast Traveler, Stylist and more.
Motherland is a cookbook that charts the history of the people, influences and ingredients that uniquely united to create the wonderful patchwork cuisine that is Jamaican food today, it doesn’t shy away from the brutality of the colonial periods but takes us on a journey through more than 500 years of history to give context to the beloved island and its cuisine.
Join Melissa for a night of the history and delights of Jamaican food.
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Made in Ancient Egypt
From the gold mask of Tutankhamun to the bust of Nefertiti, ancient Egyptians produced objects that remain iconic…
Deep Azure
Deep Azure is the UK premiere of Chadwick Boseman’s lyrical stage drama, presented in the intimate, candlelit surroundings…
Scrap It, Revamp It: 100 Years of Black History Commemorations (1926–2026)
In the early twentieth century, Black communities in the United States marked the February birthdays of social reformer…
The Authenticator
In a major new commission for 2026, the National Theatre presents The Authenticator, a gripping gothic thriller by…
Small Island
Journey from the sun-drenched shores of Jamaica to the cold, grey streets of post-war London in Small Island,…
State of the Nation: An Evening with Akala
State of the Nation: An Evening with Akala is a compelling talk and cultural conversation featuring Akala —…
State of the Nation: An Evening with Akala
State of the Nation: An Evening with Akala brings acclaimed poet, historian, author and artist Akala to Glasgow…
State of the Nation: An Evening with Akala
Akala’s State of the Nation arrives at Bristol Beacon for an evening that blends historical depth with contemporary…