Black History Month double bill for renowned poet

A legendary poet and writer will give a unique insight into his life and work when he visits Teesside University to mark Black History Month.

Benjamin Zephaniah, cited as one of Britain’s top 50 post-war poets, will host an intimate ‘audience with’ event in October as the University joins the international celebration of events for the annual Black History Month.

Following his talk, Benjamin will also perform an evening of ‘Words n Dub’ with Dennis Bovell and his fabulous Dub band. Dennis is an acclaimed reggae guitarist, bass player and record producer, who was a member of the British reggae band Matumbi.

Teesside University is hosting a series of events and activities throughout October to promote black and Asian history, culture and heritage. The programme highlights the positive contributions of the black and Asian community to British society and the local area.

Benjamin Zephaniah is a writer, lyricist and musician who is described as Britain’s most identifiable poet. A British Jamaican, his work combines poetry, music and political activism. As well as his poetry books, Benjamin Zephaniah has written several novels, plays and children’s books and is an avid actor, recently appearing in BBC2’s Peaky Blinders.

An Audience with Benjamin Zephaniah takes place from 4.00pm to 5.00pm, on 24 October, in The Curve building at Teesside University. ‘Words n Dub’, with Benjamin Zephaniah and Dennis Bovell, will be held later that evening, from 7.30pm to 10.30pm, in the Students’ Union Terrace Bar.

Margaret McFee, Equality and Diversity Advisor at Teesside University, said: 'We are delighted to be able to welcome somebody of Benjamin Zephaniah’s stature to Teesside University as part of our Black History Month celebrations. It will provide a unique opportunity to hear first-hand about his fascinating career and to ask questions.

'Black History Month at Teesside aims to enhance the student experience, engage the wider community and encourage the wider participation of students from minority backgrounds, inspiring them to achieve their potential.

'Events such as these help to raise awareness through learning, and the celebration of culture and achievements, and are vitally important to help develop greater understanding.'

Teesside University worked in partnership with Tees Valley Arts to bring Benjamin Zephaniah and Dennis Bovell to Black History Month.

Rowena Sommerville, Tees Valley Arts Director, said: 'We are delighted to be able to welcome Benjamin Zephaniah and Dennis Bovell to Middlesbrough - it will be a treat and a privilege.'

Other events taking place at Teesside University during Black History Month include:

events taking place at Teesside University during Black History Month include:

• 3 October, 6.00pm to 9.00pm, celebrating unity and diversity: an evening of singing and dancing to celebrate Nigeria’s 55th anniversary of independence

• 7 October, 1.00pm to 3.30pm, perspectives: a series of presentations on history, culture and the black British experience

• 10 October, 6.00pm to 9.00pm, taste of Africa showcase: traditional performances, African food, fashion shows, dancing, drumming and much more

• 14 October, 6.00pm to 8.00pm, poetry on campus: readings from Syrian born poet Amir Darwish who also graduated from Teesside University

• 16 October, 6.00pm to 10.00pm, black history youth awards dinner: celebrating the achievements of young black people.

Throughout October, artist Richard Henderson’s ‘Displaced’ exhibition will be at the University’s Constantine Gallery, in Middlesbrough Tower. The exhibition features an installation exploring Henderson's own identity as a dual-heritage grandson of a Caribbean migrant.

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