Windrush Square: A heartfelt story about racial tensions and love in 1980s Brixton
Monument Theatre Company return to Blue Elephant Theatre this October to launch its winter season with Windrush Square. Aptly presented at the start of Black History Month, Windrush Square explores the racial divisions and subsequent riots in 1980s Brixton. It was developed earlier this year as part of a residency at the South London venue, itself located just a stone’s throw from Brixton. It follows the Johnson family, originally from Jamaica, and the battles they face with love, life and law. Inspired by true testimonies, this young company give new life to a period of painful local history.
Monument Theatre Company is a London based physical theatre ensemble comprised of recent Physical Theatre graduates of St Mary’s University, Twickenham. They cite influences as diverse as Philippe Gaulier’s clowning, 80’s soul/hiphop/funk/rap music and secret shebeens. Many of the company have family who came to Britain on the Empire Windrush and Windrush Square was developed through research and interviews with them and Brixton residents.
As Deslie Thomas of Monument Theatre Company explains, “We are so passionate about the show because the story represents who we are, our heritage and celebrates history. Not just Black history, but British history which deserves to be remembered. Our script is all based on the voices of the people living in 1980s Lambeth and it’s fantastic that we have a chance to tell the stories through their eyes. It’s a privilege.”
Windrush Square will open Blue Elephant Theatre’s Winter Season, sharing a powerful recreation of a past that’s slipping out of memory despite lingering repercussions. While much of the content may be sobering, particularly references to the New Cross Fire and the 1985 riots, the company’s exuberant and engaging style give the piece an upbeat and on tempo optimism.
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