SomebodyJones

Grief and lost/found origins. It’s also a coming-of-age story for people in their late 20s/early 30s and explores Black people’s relationship to water from a global angle.

Why did you write it and why now?
I wrote it because I’ve always been interested in Black people’s relationship to water. When doing research for this play, I talked to over 50 Black women about how they felt about water and it was so eye-opening and interesting. I heard from women in their 40s who were just learning to swim to women who actually had Black Olympic swimming athletes in their family.  In terms of “why now?” I wanted to write a piece that celebrated Black Joy. So whilst the play does explore grief, it really is a celebration of Black culture.

Which playwrights are you influenced by and in what way?
Branden Jacobs Jenkins because of how ghost stories are subtly woven into his plays; Ryan Calais Cameron because of his audacity and how he celebrates Black culture; and Jennifer Haley because of how she plays with the horror genre.

What do you want to achieve as a playwright?
Overall, I really want to make work that celebrates the charms and complexities of Black culture, whilst ensuring that theatre is a space for Black people. My goal is to always work with and create opportunities for as many Black creatives as possible. I’m also working on my first fantasy and horror plays, which will be really exciting when they’re finished!

Website

Latest News

Share this page