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Black History Month 2023 in Reading

Throughout October

A celebration of music, art, theatre and debate are all on offer for this year’s Black History Month 2023 in Reading.

This year’s programme, taking place across the town during October, recognises the important contribution our diverse black community has made, and continues to make, to our town and across the country.

There is a packed calendar of fascinating speakers, lively debate, thought-provoking films, educational school sessions and innovative theatrical productions, with many events free of charge.

Full programme of events for Black History Month 2023.

Highlights

Windrush Lives Exhibition – 1 September to 4 November 2023   

Welcome Gallery, Reading Museum, Blagrave St, RG1 1QH  

A unique display of treasured local family keepsakes, pictures and spoken word, Windrush Lives shares the living memory of the Windrush generation and their descendants in making Reading the place it is today.  

Opening hours: Tues-Fri: 10am- 4pm, Sat: 10am-5pm  

Jazz Reggae Afrobeat course – 18 September to 27 November 2023 (not including half term 23 Oct), 5.30pm-7.30pm  

CultureMix Arts & Music Centre, 7 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QF  

A 10 week Jazz Reggae Afrobeat music course for 12-16’s who have some experience of playing a musical instrument. The project is completely free of charge.  

The Drifters  – Tuesday 10 October 2023, 7.30pm  

The Hexagon Theatre, Reading  

The Drifters are back on tour in the UK performing all their classic hits! The legendary group have been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, performed for the President of the United States and listed among the Greatest Artists of All Time by Rolling Stone magazine.    

Creative Connection – Thursday 12 October 2023, 6.30pm (doors 6.15pm)  

Reading Biscuit Factory, Unit 1A, Queen’s Walk (corner of Oxford Road), Reading RG1 7QE  

Join us for an evening of short films featuring a wealth of new talent and Q&A session and network with creatives & filmmakers to develop your next project and gain insights.  

Soca Dance Classes – Saturday 14, 21 & 28 October 2023, 10.30 – 11.30am  

CultureMix Arts & Music Centre, 7 Queens Walk, Reading RG1 7QF  

Soca Dance Classes are a fun way to keep fit and have fun. Get ready to practice your Carnival dance moves to Soca beats with Krystle. Tickets are £5 via Eventbrite.