⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Five Stars)

Black Power Desk at Brixton House is one of the most exciting new British musicals I’ve seen in years. The show had the audience on press night audibly gasping, cheering, and even booing some of the more antagonistic characters: rarely have I been part of a crowd so fully invested in the shared experience of a story, a testament to the fantastic writing, direction, and performances in this show.

Set in 1970s London and inspired by real events involving activist groups such as the Mangrove Nine, the musical follows a tight-knit group of Black activists plotting protests from The Drum, a community restaurant. Dina (Veronica Carabai), the group’s determined leader, faces both external danger and internal misogyny as she fights to be recognised in a movement dominated by men. Meanwhile, her sister Celia (Rochelle Rose) becomes romantically involved with someone outside the cause, leading to a heartbreaking rift between the siblings. As the activists clash over whether to use peaceful or violent methods in their protests, they discover that the police have launched a covert operation, known as the Black Power Desk, to infiltrate their ranks and bring them down.

Urielle Klein-Mekongo’s writing is both deeply personal and fiercely political, with characters whose histories and relationships feel instantly lived-in. Gbolahan Obisesan’s direction is dynamic and inventive, with audience interaction from the start: we’re asked to vote on the group’s name, breaking the fourth wall and drawing us further into the movement’s story. This device encourages audience reactions throughout, creating a uniquely participatory atmosphere. The show balances its serious themes of violence, racism, and police brutality with laugh-out-loud humour, warmth, and a strong sense of community, ensuring every emotional beat lands.

With music and lyrics by Klein-Mekongo, Renell Shaw, and Gerel Falconer (who also shines as Carlton, The Drum’s owner), the score blends reggae, soul, grime, and RnB into a soundscape that feels both exhilarating and purposeful, with clever, detail-rich lyrics. Performed by a three-person onstage band, the music heightens every moment it is utilised in, supported by powerhouse vocals across the cast. Rochelle Rose, in particular, delivers several show-stopping numbers.

Jessica Cabassa’s 1970s-inspired costumes and Natalie Pryce’s evocative set design create a world that feels both authentic and theatrical. The split-level staging cleverly contrasts the activists’ bustling community hub with balcony-level police surveillance meetings, while Prema Mehta’s lighting adds depth and emotional texture, especially in newsreel-style sequences depicting violence against Black activists, which powerfully contextualise the group’s struggle.

What makes Black Power Desk truly special is its seamless blend of gripping narrative, complex characters, and powerful music. It’s a production that entertains, educates, and enrages in equal measure, while keeping us deeply invested in its human story.

Black Power Desk runs at Brixton House until 28th September 2025. It will then be performed at Warwick Arts Centre on 14th October 2025, Salford Lowry Theatre 16th - 18th October 2025, and Birmingham Hippodrome 22nd - 25th October 2025.

Tickets Available Here