One of the most talented young performers working in the UK is heading to Bridport following a sell out run at the National Theatre. Inua Ellams’ show Black T-shirt collection tells the story of two foster brothers building a global t-shirt brand, it features a combination of poetry, storytelling and graphic design.
Black T-shirt Collection seeks to interpret the complex cultural identity of immigrants through his work. A T-shirt is something most people have. It is a common denominator like a pair of blue jeans or a pair of Converse All Stars. The textile and fashion industries themselves are absolutely fascinating. To produce a t-shirt from nothing requires an understanding of the international markets, trading agreements, rules and violations, bribery, corruption, modern day slavery and macro and micro economics.
In Black T-shirt Collection, Inua tells the story of two brothers who face sectarianism, and homophobia, as they seek success through their t-shirt business. As they travel from Nigeria, to Cairo, to London and to China, they struggle with the expectations of the industry, prejudice, ambition, and ultimately with themselves.
An award winning poet, playwright and performer, Inua works as a graphic designer, his client list includes Luis Vuitton, TATE and The Royal Opera House to name a few. His first play The 14th Tale, won a Fringe First Award at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2009. His second play, Untitled, was long listed for the Alfred Fagan award. Inua toured his fourth play, Knight Watch, nationally and in London through summer 2012.
Fringe First Winner Inua Elam’s Black T-Shirt Collection
Saturday 28 October, 8pm at Bridport Arts Centre