75 years since the arrival of HMS Windrush into Britain, Black British Ballet’s, Island Movements will be performed in the Patrick Studio on Windrush Memorial Day, Saturday 22 June.

Choreographed by Greta Mendez MBE, and developed by the first Black British graduate of the Royal Ballet School, Darren Panton, alongside Patrick Williams of the Alvin Ailey and Paris Opera companies, Island Movements is a 30 minute ballet that tells the story of Windrush and explores the impact of this generation’s experiences on their families, communities and society.  The show will be followed by a Q&A with the dancers and creators.

The show will feature original music by performance youth group Kinetika Bloco, with the story being driven by a pulsating mix of reggae, calypso and contemporary Black British music.

The dance begins in World War II when a young Caribbean RAF pilot comes to Britain, after settling down and meeting his wife, and follows him and his family through their life in the UK up until the current day.

Director Sandie Bourne said, “I am so excited to bring this show to communities around the country, especially those who may not normally get to see ballet, and to showcase our group of talented young dancers. The Black British Ballet project was created to demonstrate the important contribution made by black dancers to British ballet and to improve opportunities for future generations. Island Movements delivers on both fronts, while also shining a light on the experiences of the Windrush generation.”

Tickets for Island Movements can be booked here or by calling 0844 338 5000*

*0844 calls will cost you 4.5p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.