Black Victorians

Exploring a complex, but often forgotten black presence in pre-Windrush Britain, Black Victorians calls attention to previously hidden figures and challenges historical and contemporary perceptions. Picture dancers dressed in restrictive Victorian costumes, shedding them in rebellion as they dance in African, contemporary and hip-hop styles re-imagining a moment in history. Their movement will invoke their origins in powerful ways, bringing voice and body to the portraits that inspired us.

Black Victorians is inspired by nineteenth century studio photographs of black men, women and children - Black Chronicles II curated by Renée Mussai at the Autograph Gallery in London.

Black Victorians is supported by Without Walls and commissioned by FESTIVAL.ORG, Hat Fair and Brighton Festival. Black Victorians is supported by Historic Royal Palaces and R&D investment through Without Walls Blueprint.