The Story of Claudia Jones

A riotous blend of stand-up storytelling, visuals and song, this is a play bursting with colour, sound and emotions.

“People without a voice are as lambs to the slaughter” Claudia Jones

The Story of Claudia Jones is a riotous blend of stand-up storytelling, visuals and song, bursting with colour, sound and emotions. It is a tour de force that entertains and informs of Britain’s Black history, the important contribution Claudia Jones made to the country’s post-war political, social and cultural landscape; and her role as a leader in the struggle to improve conditions and make a better way of life for Black working class communities.

This play tells the story of how Claudia Jones – Trinidadian born, US immigrant, political activist, victim of the USA McCarthy era, deported to England in 1955 – introduced the first West Indian carnival in London at St Pancras Town Hall, precursor to the world-famous Notting Hill Carnival. With an innovative blend of drama, song, photography, and film, the production seeks to empower and inform its audiences and increase wider public appreciation of Black history and culture, in particular the important role and influence on British culture that Claudia Jones has had. It is youth and community focused, and aims to encourage audiences of all social and cultural backgrounds.