Brownton Abbey Cinematic Universe
Four films by Brownton Abbey, an evolving, international performance collective centering and celebrating disabled, queer people of colour. Usually renowned for their radically inclusive performance parties, the collective have adapted and distilled their project for a digital landscape, creating Brownton Abbey Cinematic Universe.
This event will be introduced by Tarik Elmoutawakil, a founder and artistic director of Marlborough Productions, our partner for this event. Marlborough Productions is the UK's trailblazing performing arts organisation dedicated to intersectional queer arts.
Tarik was the catalyst for the formation of Brownton Abbey and continues to be the driving force that brings the out-of-this-world party together.
All I Ever Wanted by Malik Nasad-Sharpe
Malik Nashad Sharpe presents their inimitable choreography in Battersea Arts Centre’s spectacular Grand Hall for All I Ever Wanted. Renowned for their distinctive physical dexterity as well as atmospheric, electrifying performances, this film is about rage, their relationship of gender, their experiences of sexual assault and moving through these experiences. This film commission is directed by Nick Virk.
Re(Union) by Sonny Nwachukwu
Sonny Nwachukwu is a writer, director, choreographer and performer. Through spoken word and movement, Re(union), directed by Myah Jeffers, is about different journeys to becoming comfortable with one’s skin, finding one's voice, and finding one's light. Sonny was inspired by Moses, who also had a stammer.
Where Are You From? by Lasana Shabazz
Lasana Shabazz, an interdisciplinary performance artist, writer, and director, presents "Where are you from?", connecting with audiences, evoking vulnerability whilst exploring the narratives and emotional footprint of marginalised groups. The film's title, "Where are you from?", transforms a question often asked with racial motivation and weaponisation into a tool for empowerment. Directed by Mimi Koku, this movement film is about pushing against racism and the feeling of being unwelcome in one's own home.
B2B, a meditation for when there is no sun by Nima Séne
Nima’s work is rooted in their Afro-German heritage, focusing on the queer, Black, European, diasporic experience. Alongside Gillian Katungi, their performance is about connection and light and darkness, covering the sonic realness of jazz innovator Sun Ra's When There Is No Sun. Directed, designed and sound composed by Matthew Arthur Williams.
Picture: A still from the film B2B, a meditation for when there is no sun by Nima Séne.