There’s a new London play coming that’s inspired by Brixton Academy

A new play based on one of London’s most famous venues is set to open this summer.

Inspired by Simon Parkes’ memoir Live At The Brixton Academy, Brixton Calling will premiere at Southwark Playhouse, Borough from July 23 – August 16, and is set to include a “live soundtrack of reggae, punk, rock and rave”, according to a press release.

It will tell the “incredible true story of a 23-year-old outsider who bought a derelict cinema for £1 in 1983 and turned it into the iconic music venue that played host to the most legendary names in music.”

Today (May 1), actors/musicians Max Runham and Tendai Humphrey Sitima have been announced as cast members, with Max enthusing that, “My relationship to music made the draw of this play and the story behind such an iconic venue so much more powerful. I was born with one arm, which has made my approach to music unique and again, made the connection to Simon’s story deeper for me on a personal level.”

“Brixton Calling isn’t just a play – it’s a riot of sound, story, and spirit,” adds director Bronagh Lagan. “Set against the fire of ’80s Brixton – a place where pain met power, and out of the cracks, something electric grew. A time of unrest, resistance, and radical creativity – this show hits hard, plays loud and grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go.”

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