Hackney Archives hosts historian, playwright and musician Khareem Jamal for an evening built around the launch of his new book, Africology: The Spirit of Inquiry. Blending performance, discussion and live readings, the event offers an introduction to Jamal’s work in Black theatre, history and community education.
Khareem Jamal is the co-creator and musical director of the long-running stage production Black Heroes in the Hall of Fame and the writer-director of The Abolitionist, based on the life of David Walker. His work also includes co-directing Whirlwind and the Storm, centred on Marcus Garvey, and The Voices of Black Folk. He is the founder of The School of Africology and is active in community work through Micah Community Projects. His contributions to theatre and education — including work connected with Black Heroes in the Hall of Fame — have been associated with honours such as the Spirit of Detroit Mayor’s Medal, the Keys to the City of Miami and a Special Award from the Mayor of Washington DC for education.
The programme combines performance and conversation. It begins with an introduction to the themes behind Africology, followed by poetic reflections, a Youthful Voices segment and a short dramatic piece titled Echoes of the Ancestors. The second half features readings from the book, a panel-style discussion and time for audience questions. A book signing will close the evening.
The event is designed for a wide audience, offering insight into African historical study, community knowledge and the creative traditions that have shaped Jamal’s work.
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