CT: There's so much behind any production that the audience doesn't see and months and months of preparation. What's been a highlight for you?
PB: I think there have been delightful moments for me as a theatre director working with an ensemble who are very multi-talented and flexible and giving on stage and there are moments of real power where there are lots of bodies on stage and you really get a sense of the numbers who were enslaved and forced to travel on boats, dancing or singing songs, whether it's Amazing Grace or from their African tribal roots.
It's been just a very powerful and delightful experience and felt very collaborative. That stays with me, that we've done this together.
CT: What do you want the audience to take away from the production?
PB: I would like them to be thoroughly entertained and uplifted and inspired by these individuals, particulary Equiano - as much for a black audience as well as a white audience. Because I think there are too few black role models presented to the people who are really challenging and inspirational. I want people to be entertained and really moved not just by the horrors of slavery but more by the sense in which committed individuals, no matter how large the tasks facing them, can really make a huge difference,
I want people to take the opportunity to think very deeply not only about a moment in history 200 years ago when something was done about slavery but to think what can be done now. What can we as individuals tackle in terms of awareness and consciousness and political campaigning on behalf of children or vulnerable women and nations that are oppressed in the world today? I think that's really important.
Ends
African Snow will run at the West End's Trafalgar Studios from Tuesday 24 April until Saturday 5 May before continuing on its nationwide tour.
For dates and more details, go to www.ridinglights.org
