A deeply human look at the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade and its echoes in modern life.
Tell me what you see … A contemplation of a beautiful, yet grotesque painting, thus begins this sweeping tale of interlocking timelines, exploring identity, heritage, and the haunting legacy of slavery. Set in 1840 and 2007, this compelling production at Tower Theatre, London challenges audiences to confront both historical and contemporary perspectives on the transatlantic slave trade.
Inspired by JMW Turner’s harrowing painting The Slave Ship, ‘Rockets and Blue Lights’ (named after another Turner painting) follows two parallel narratives: Lou, a 21st century Hollywood star bearing the weight of portraying black history authentically and Thomas, a 19th-century black sailor grappling with the realities of so-called freedom. Their intertwined stories explore the legacy of slavery, the power of storytelling, and the ways in which art both reveals and obscures the truth.
‘Rockets and Blue Lights’ is a celebration of intergenerational strength, courage, and resilience. With its powerful themes of historical erasure and rediscovered stories, the play offers an uplifting message of hope that will resonate with audiences of all backgrounds. The play intertwines past and present, challenging how history is remembered—and who gets to tell it. London audiences will be transported across time with this powerful, thought-provoking new production produced and directed by award-winning producer Landé Belo.
Cast: Lou/Olu: Tiffany Ola; Essie/Lucy: Rinré Olusola; Trevor/Thomas: Akeem Maull-Nicol; Reuben/Caesar: Nvaron R. Anderson; Pearson/Benjamin/Clarke: Renford Warmington J.M.W Turner/Roy/Peter Piper: Paul Kristovic; Johnson/Decker/Ruskin: Matteo Caporusso; Danby/Mary: Nina Sprigge; Meg/Vonnie: Fiona Makia; Billie: Daniel Ooko Jeanie/Jess: Fiyin Ifebogun; Boy/Overseer/Sailor: Gareth Foynes.
Don’t miss this powerful exploration of identity, heritage, and the legacy of slavery.
Listings
Rockets and Blue Lights: 18 June - 28 June 2025
The Tower Theatre, 16 Northwold Road, Stoke Newington, London, N16 7HR
Tickets £12 in advance or £14 at the door. BOOK NOW