A Concert in a Play.
Written and performed by Tayo Aluko
Synopsis
It’s January 1999.
George Coleridge-Taylor, retired Sierra Leonean diplomat, finds himself trapped in Fourah Bay College when the civil war that has been ravaging the country reaches Freetown. In hiding, he reflects on his and his country’s stories, wondering if he dares defend the woman captured by the fearsome rebels.
His imagination takes him to more peaceful climes, where he sings the beautiful songs of his famous uncle, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor.
Contains suggestions of, and allusions to, gender-based and war violence.
Reviews:
“The sweetness and beauty of the songs provides a poignant contrast to the often bleak events they punctuate.” Morning Star
“One of the reasons I love Fringe Theatre is challenging performances like these.”
Theatre, Films and Art
“Aluko takes on the characters of the abusers to chilling effect.”
Edinburgh Music Review.
Click image to view trailer
Music includes piano pieces and songs by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor,
A song by Avril Coleridge-Taylor
A song by Tayo Aluko, arranged by Deirdre Pascall
Next Performances: 12 – 30 May, 2026 @ The Bread & Roses Theatre, Clapham, London