To mark the end of Black History Month, Miskin Acting and Technical Theatre students took part in a closing celebration comprising of multiple activities throughout the day. The event was held on 1st November at the Miskin Theatre in our Dartford Campus.
In the UK, Black History Month takes place every October. Black History Month is both a time to celebrate and a time to learn about and understand Black history and culture. This is exactly what students at North Kent College did.
The day began with an opening celebration, detailing how the event will unfold and kicking off the celebrations. Then a thirty minute Steppin' dance class took place hosted by North Kent College lecturers, Carly Pettard and Claire Hardaker. Steppin’ is a complex synchronized dancelike performance that blends African folk traditions with popular culture.
The second part of the day saw groups head off to the three spaces, rotating after thirty-minutes. Room one was a Comedy Club. Students viewed a selection of black comedians and some of their best material. Everyone was encouraged to laugh! The next room displayed Lights, music, and footage of this year's Notting Hill Carnival. Students were encouraged to dance along! The final room saw students taking part in Crafts & Quizzes relating to black culture including a crafts table with black history colour pages and a face recognition quiz of black artists, designers, actors, musicians, directors, producers.
The final part of the day was titled: What It Means To Be Black And British. Over the half term actors, technicians and a musician were asked to think about what it means to be Black and British. They translated these thoughts into an artform including poetry, music, singing, speeches, dances, costume designs. A selection of students came up on stage and presented on the mic to the rest of the students. This was followed by a closing celebration including the announcement of the quiz winner and a closing poem!
Gavin Brocker, Head of Curriculum for Acting, Technical Theatre and Music said "I am immensely proud of all the staff and students that were involved with celebrating Black History month. The care, love and compassion that was put into organising this event will forever be remembered. To Carly, the learners who lead the event and all of the Miskin Theatre company ... thank you."