'For Black Boys' to return to the West End in 2024

Ryan Calais Cameron's award-winning production returns to London's West End next year for a limited nine-week run at the Garrick Theatre.

For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy is to return to the West End next year. The critically acclaimed show will run at the Garrick Theatre from 29 February 2024 through 4 May 2024.

"I am thrilled by the prospect of For Black Boys… gracing the stage once more, delivering a compelling and thought-provoking narrative that has deeply resonated with both audiences and critics," playwright Ryan Calais Cameron said in a statement. "It is truly humbling to witness how this production has also propelled the careers of the first remarkable actors who breathed life into these characters. Observing their excellence on renowned stages and in high-profile projects is a source of immense pride. The opportunity to offer the roles to a new generation of actors brings profound joy. It is a testament to the ongoing dialogue sparked by For Black Boys… and a commitment to providing emerging talents with the chance to shine."

Nominated for Best New Play and Best Supporting Actor at the 2023 Olivier Awards, the play enjoyed full houses during its original run at the New Diorama Theatre, subsequent transfer to the Royal Court Theatre, and initial West End stint at the Apollo Theatre. Praised by critics and audiences alike, the production has garnered widespread acclaim, with notable fans including John Boyega, David Harewood, Daniel Kaluuya, Beverley Knight, Rapman, Stormzy, and Letitia Wright. Read our four-star review on London Theatre.

Drawing inspiration from Ntozake Shange's influential piece, For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf, For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy uses music, movement, storytelling, and verse, as six men collide and connect in a desperate quest for survival. Amidst father figures and fashion advice, lost loves and jollof rice, African empires and clandestine affairs, the narrative unfolds as six young Black men convene for group therapy, allowing their hearts and imaginations to roam freely through good days and bad.

8For Black Boys* features a set design by Anna Reid, lighting design by Rory Beaton, sound design and composition by Nicola T Chang, movement direction by Theophilus O. Bailey, musical direction and vocal arrangement by John Pfumojena, and casting by Isabella Odoffin. Tristan Fynn-Aiduenu directed the show's original run at the New Diorama Theatre. Casting will be announced at a later date.

Book For Black Boys tickets on London Theatre.

Photo credit: For Black Boys (Photos courtesy of production)