As the vibrant autumn leaves begin to fall, Southampton prepares for an exciting line up of events celebrating the rich tapestry of black cultures and history this Black History Month. Take a look below to see all the happenings around the city, from art exhibitions and film screenings to the much anticipated Black Businesses, Art and Music Festival (BBAM!) taking place in Southampton's Guildhall Square.
This year's event, themed "Reclaiming the Narrative," focuses on recognising and correcting the narratives surrounding Black history and culture. The keynote speaker, Festus Akinbusoye, the first Black Police & Crime Commissioner, will offer invaluable insights on the importance of reclaiming and reshaping the stories that define Black history and identity in Britain. The event also features a special performance by Aflo the Poet, whose powerful spoken word artistry vividly captures the essence of the Black experience. For more information click here.
Photo by Black History South.
Inspired by the life of Nina Simone and featuring live performances of her most iconic songs, Black is the Color of My Voice tells the story of a celebrated singer and civil rights activist seeking redemption after the tragic loss of her father. The play explores her journey from a young piano prodigy with a future in the church to a renowned jazz singer and a powerful voice in the Civil Rights Movement. Get your tickets here.
Photo by MAST Mayflower Studios.
BBAM! Festival returns to Guildhall Square for its second year, back bigger and better than ever. Bring the whole family and immerse yourselves in special poetry performances, film screenings, interactive workshops, and more, to celebrate a vibrant mix of cultures, across four indoor and outdoor venues such as the O2 Guildhall, MAST Mayflower Studios, John Hansard Gallery and outside Mettricks. The event will be led by The United Voice of African Associations (TUVAA). Find out more here.
Featuring striking images by renowned local live music and documentary photographer Nosa Malcom, 'Colourism' explores the profound impact of colourism worldwide - a prejudice in which people with darker skins experience disadvantages compared with those with a lighter complexion.
This powerful exhibition will be displayed in pop-up galleries across Southampton, including October Books, Solent University, and Central Library. By showcasing Nosa’s work, the exhibition aims to challenge perceptions and ignite conversations about the significant effects of colourism to inspires us to work towards a more equitable and inclusive society. Find out more here.
Photo by Black Archives South.
Get ready to feel the rhythm with The King of Reggae – The Man - The Music, a brand-new production from the acclaimed Rush Theatre Company. Featuring over 20 iconic hits like “One Love,” “No Woman No Cry,” and “Is This Love,” all performed live by The King of Reggae Band, this narrated musical takes you on a journey through the life of the legend who brought reggae to the world. For ticket information click here.
Photo by MAST Mayflower Studios.
Taking place every Friday throughout October, God’s House Tower will be marking Black History Month with a unique Hidden History Walk, exploring Jane Austen’s Southampton and the untold stories of Black Georgians. As 2025 marks the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, God's House Tower is kicking off a series of events and installations honouring her connection to the maritime city. The Black Georgian Hidden History Walk is the first of many, shedding light on the diverse, multicultural fabric of Austen’s Southampton.
From plantation families and their Black servants to Black soldiers who fought alongside Wellington, sailors who served with Nelson, and influential abolitionists, actors, and writers—this tour uncovers a rich history often overlooked. For tickets and to learn more click here.
Set on the night of 3rd, April 1968, The Mountaintop brings to life a powerful reimagining of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s final hours. After delivering his iconic "I've Been to the Mountaintop" speech, Dr. King returns to Room 306 at the Lorraine Motel, where a surprise encounter with Camae, a seemingly unassuming motel maid, takes an unexpected turn. Written by award-winning playwright Katori Hall (TINA – The Tina Turner Musical), this gripping production explores legacy, destiny, and the human side of an extraordinary leader. Learn more here.
Photo by MAST Mayflower Studios.
Join BAFTA-winning author, activist, and performer Lemn Sissay OBE for an unforgettable evening of poetry, stories, and conversation in his brand-new live show. Known for his powerful spoken word and Sunday Times bestselling book Let the Light Pour In, Lemn has captivated audiences with his unique morning poetry practice—four untitled lines shared daily on social media that have inspired murals, music, and even tattoos.
In this live event, Lemn will share readings from his acclaimed works, reveal the personal stories behind his poems, and explore how creativity shapes both his life and the lives of others. Expect a night filled with humour, truth, and unexpected moments as Lemn invites you to discover how he "lets the light pour in." Get your tickets here.
Photo by MAST Mayflower Studios.
Experience the heartwarming and inspirational story of hope, determination, and triumph in Coming to England, the stage adaptation of Floella Benjamin’s award-winning book. Beloved by families, this powerful production brings to life Floella’s own journey as a 10-year-old emigrating from Trinidad to England in the 1960s.
As Floella and her siblings eagerly join their parents in London, their excitement quickly fades as they face racism and intolerance in their new home. Guided by her mother’s wisdom and driven by resilience, young Floella works twice as hard to overcome adversity, eventually becoming Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham. Learn more here.
Photo by MAST Mayflower Studios.
Real stories by real people - join Our Version Media for an evening dedicated to showcasing and celebrating stories from the region’s African, Caribbean, and Black British communities. Individuals will share their personal stories, captured through mobile video after completing a Mobile Storytelling course where they learned to film and edit using just a smartphone. These “Reclaiming Narratives” stories boldly confront and challenge negative racial stereotypes head-on. Joining the evening as keynote speaker is Cherron Inko-Tariah MBE, editor of the UK’s Black History Month magazine.
Everyone is invited to start off in MAST’s café bar for pre-show drinks and socialising 30 minutes before the screening. For ticket information, click here.
While you are out in the city, make sure you stop by the Marlands Shopping Centre to see the Ebony Rockers Mural, just outside of MOSS. This large-scale mural painted by local artists, Slam Daniels, was painted in celebration of the local 70s band, the Ebony Rockers, who broke out into the music scene in 1979. Read the full story here.
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