The Conversation: Beyond Black History Month 1st Centenary
Join us as we explore transforming Black History Month into a celebration throughout the entire year.
This podcast examines the importance of understanding and teaching Black history beyond just one month. We discuss whether, at present, it acts more as a token gesture due to insufficient representation in schools. Could it be a way to downplay the more difficult truths Black people have faced historically?
We also consider how a broader understanding of Black history might affect young Black students, asking if it would help them feel more empathetic, equal, and valued when their heritage and achievements are celebrated.
Finally, we look ahead to what Black History Month may become as it reaches its 100th anniversary in 2026, envisioning a future of ongoing celebration and education.
Hosted by Anthony McPherson.
The Conversation: Beyond Black History Month 1st Centenary
Suzann McLean: The Importance of Black Theatre, Culture and Performing Arts
Suzann McLean is an esteemed, award-winning actress, and the CEO and artistic director of Theatre Peckham. Her acting career spans both stage and screen, with credits including popular productions like “Good Omens,” “The Honourable Woman,” “Dr. Who,” Eastenders,” and “Little Miss Jocelyn.” Perhaps most notably, however, is McLean’s portrayal of “Isabella”: a young Rwandan woman from the National Theatre’s production of “Measure For Measure.”
Outside of acting herself, Suzann is also known for fostering talent and championing young, diverse voices; which she has done an especially excellent job of at Theatre Peckham, after stepping into her role in 2018.
In this episode, McLean and McPherson discuss: Suzann’s role as CEO and artistic director of Theatre Peckham, the importance of community and collaboration, developing theatre classics, Theatre Peckham alumni like John Boyega, and the self described “controversial” Young Gifted and Black season; an alternative to Black History Month.
Welcome to The Conversation with Anthony McPherson.
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