The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has unveiled exciting details about the debut edition of “Black on the Square,” a significant new annual event dedicated to honouring the diversity and vibrancy of Black culture and creativity. Scheduled to take place on Trafalgar Square on Saturday, September 2, this pioneering festival promises an array of captivating experiences.
Commencing at 12:00, “Black on the Square” will welcome people of all ages, including families, with a commitment to inclusivity. The festival is open to all attendees, without the need for tickets, ensuring accessibility for everyone.
The event will be a rich tapestry of artistic expressions, blending art, fashion, music, and spoken word. From established performers to emerging talents, “Black on the Square” will showcase a wide spectrum of creative brilliance.
The mainstage will feature captivating performances by rapper ENNY, known for her hit “Peng Black Girls,” alt rappers BXKS, and surprise special guests. Collaborating with representatives from the music, theatre, art, media, tech, and community activism realms, this festival serves as a platform to celebrate London’s diverse Black communities.
The festival’s dynamic atmosphere will resonate with DJ sets and live music presented by renowned club nights and music collectives, including Touching Bass and Queer Bruk, among others. The audience will also be treated to freestyle rap performances by The Spit Game UK, adding a unique rhythm to the day.
Visitors can look forward to captivating installations, including a photography exhibition by celebrated photographer Jenny Baptiste and a music showcase by Art Beyond the Shell from Newham. Moreover, a variety of stalls representing Black-owned businesses will offer delicious Caribbean and African cuisine, artisan goods, custom accessories, and handmade homeware.
Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Black on the Square is a fantastic addition to our capital’s cultural calendar. London’s Black communities are a vital part of the rich fabric of our city, and I am proud that this brand-new, free event will showcase and champion the sheer breadth of the capital’s Black creative talent.”
Josette Bushell-Mingo OBE, Chair of the Community Advisory Group and Principal and CEO of The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, emphasised the significance of community spaces: “It is vital that we continue to create spaces for our communities to come together, to share our experiences, to learn from one another, to celebrate and to inspire.”
TSTIZZ, of The Spit Game UK, added his excitement: “We can’t wait to shut down Black on the Square! Young talent repping Black cultures in such an iconic setting is a massive statement.”
Fynn Studio, Creative Programmer for “Black on the Square,” highlighted the festival’s purpose: “Black on the Square is a meaningful new addition to London’s event calendar. These artists contribute to London’s reputation as a place where cultural movements are born; London’s creatives are the reason why this is the best city on Earth.”
“Black on the Square” echoes Sadiq Khan’s commitment to celebrating diverse creative talent from London’s communities. This event joins a roster of cultural celebrations hosted by the Mayor on Trafalgar Square, further enriching the city’s cultural tapestry.
For more information about the event, please visit: https://www.london.gov.uk/events/black-square-2023
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