Africa Utopia comes to the Southbank Centre 31 August – 4 September

The Mandela Trilogy – an “epic operatic tribute.” Photograph: John Snelling

Africa Utopia presents talks, workshops, music, comedy and performances that celebrate the arts and culture of one of the world’s most dynamic and fast-changing continents.

Featuring a full programme of talks and debates, Africa Utopia highlights the many ways in which the African continent is leading the way in thinking about culture, politics and the arts. A host of experts, entrepreneurs and activists come together as we discuss great innovations, people and progress across the continent and share ideas for positive change in Africa.

Witness the return of Chineke! Orchestra, Britain’s first professional orchestra made up entirely of black and minority ethnic musicians, and discover the story of Nelson Mandela in Mandela Trilogy’s epic operatic tribute, presented in three parts by a cast of over 60 performers, including three different incarnations of Mandela.

Members of the Chineke! Orchestra. Photograph: Eric Richmond

Other highlights include a live rooftop performance by desert rock band Terakaft, an evening of comedy from across the diaspora with Presidents of Laughrica, an exploration of social power dynamics in Expensive Sh*t and a delicious street food market.

Bring the family along and get involved in events for all ages. Hear an African retelling of the fairytale Rapunzel, join author Sade Falipe on an ABC Adventure, search for treasure in Mary Ononokpono’s antiquities hunt or move and groove with your little ones in an Africa Utopia special edition of Pram Jam.

Fuel up at the African Food and Drink Takeover and savour tastes from across the continent as Southbank Centre square is turned into a bustling street-food market, with over 35 vendors of authentic African cuisine.

Plus, over half the events are completely free. Learn new moves in dance workshops, discover your new favourite dish in a live cook off, take a riverside tour of London’s African history or get involved in a part in a giant flash mob.

Africa Utopia
31 August – 4 September
Southbank Centre
Belvedere Rd,
SE1 8XX