The UK’s first all black, all female Shakespeare Company representing women of the African Diaspora has been formed. Mawa Company will address how black people and black women are represented in classical text and explore how Shakepeare translates to black audiences.

Mawa intends to produce content that focuses on themes within his work that correlates with the Black community. Founded by actresses Maisey Bawden, Gabrielle Brooks, Danielle Kassarate and Jade Samuels, Mawa will being to redress the imbalance within the industry. The company intends to become a beacon of black femail creativity and an agent for change.

According to Gabrielle Brooks, Creative Director at Mawa , ‘It’s time Black Britishness stopped being excluded from the ownership of classical British art. Mawa is an amazing opportunity to centre our Black Britishness without being bound by the perception of it and I’m so excited to be a part of that.’

Actress, Sharon D Clarke, says, ‘Mawa! The UK’s first all Black, all Female Shakespeare Company! I am thrilled to be associated with Mawa Company.We have waited a long time for a company like this and I’m excited to see them produce some groundbreaking, thought provoking, innovative work. The industry desperately needs more Black led female companies and I cannot wait to see Mawa break and slay new ground.’

For more information, visit the Mawa Theatre company’s website.