Programme announced for 2015 Talawa Firsts

Talawa, Britain's leading Black-led Theatre company, has announced Talawa Firsts, its annual festival of new writing.

Now in its fourth year, this festival brings together some of the best emerging Black writers, directors and theatremakers for a series of brand new work.

Works by Firdos Ali, Chanje Kunda, Safaa Benson-Effiom and David Judge are included in the programme for the festival, which runs from 8 to 26 June 2015.

Talawa's Studio near Old Street will be transformed into a performance space to host the festival.

Artistic director Michael Buffong said: "In the theatre industry, it seems as if there is a 'drop-out point' for new Black writers and artists, where after an initial success they slip away from theatre.

"We want to keep these talented writers and artists in theatre, give them more opportunities to develop their skills; get their ideas off the ground; meet industry professionals; and build a strong network."