Week of 28th April: Natural November, 3rd World Igbo Conference, Low Carbon Africa, Nubian Expressions Nu Jazz and African Music Event, African Bridal Show Spring Edition, 2Face Idibia at The Kentish Town Forum, Yaaba Funk Album Launch, Afro Festival Vibes, Uncle Errol’s World Famous Poetry Jam, Black African Women Rock Launch,

Eka san,

Another mega week before you have another long weekend, from Natural November to the 3^rd World Igbo

Conference and Afrobeat star 2Face Idibia.

Have a great week

Monday 28^th April

At 10.30am Chatham House presents South Africa’s Mining Industry: The Trade Union Perspective at The Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, 10 St James Square, WC1Y 4LE. Chaired by Peter Hain MP, Senzeni Zokwana and Peter Bailey (South Africa National Union of Mineworkers) will present their views of the role and future of the mining sector in South Africa. To attend RSVP here

At 6.30pm Lets Watch screens 12 Months on at Juno Bar, 134 Shoreditch High Street, E1 6JE. This is the UK premiere of 12 Months a documentary on homelessness and societal concerns, in which a Los Angeles man gives a home to a mother and her 4 children that he has never met for a year. Followed by a Q&A with the director admission is £2.00 more details here. 

At 7.00pm The Ideas Factory presents Aqua Africa at Citizen M, Bankside, 20 Lavington Street, SE1 0NZ. Tickets for this presentation about bringing people out of poverty are £20.00 from here.

At 7.00pm Kings College London presents Split/ Mixed at the Inigo Rooms, Somerset House, East Wing, WC2R 2LS. This one man play explores what it’s like to be a young middle class Rwandan of Hutu and Tutsi parentage during the Genocide and growing up in exile. Tickets are £5.00 (£3.00 KCL students and alumni) from here. 

Tuesday 29^th April

At 6.30pm Lets Talk Too Debate Group hosts Young People- Today and Tomorrow at the Goat Tavern, 3 Stafford Street, W1S 4RP. This debate/ discussion group will address issues relating to youth today, such as drugs and gun culture, live/ work/study abroad etc. Admission is £2.00, more details here.

At 6.00pm is Photographing Rwanda After Genocide at the Inigo Rooms, Somerset House, in which a panel of Rwandan and international journalists discuss how Rwanda is depicted in images 20 years after the genocide. Tickets are £5.00 (£3.00 concs) from here.

At 6.45pm is Low Carbon Africa: Development Solution and Business Opportunity at the Royal Geographical Society, 1 Kensington Gore, SW7 2AR. Chaired by Laura Taylor (Christian Aid), Chuka Umunna MP (Shadow Secretary for Business, Innovation and skills) will examine development potential and trade opportunities for the UK, followed by a panel discussion with Williams Nkurunziza (Rwandan High Commissioner), Rolake Akinkugbe (FBN Capital), Stefan Dercon (DfID), and Simon Bransfield-Gareth (Azuri Technologies). Preceded and followed by drinks and light refreshments. RSVP this FREE event by email.

At 7.00pm the Royal African Society presents The Pan African History of Basil Davidson: Episode 3 ‘Caravans of Gold’: Screening + Q&A at Khalili Lecture Theatre, SOAS, Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square, WC1X 0SG. Chaired by Gus Casely-Hayford (Lost Kingdoms of Africa) with Mick Casky (Series Executive Producer), Chenjerai Shire (SOAS), Robin Walker (History specialist) and Saran Keita (author). There will be a screening of the 3^rd episode of the 8 part series Africa: A Voyage of Discovery in which Basil Davidson retraces Africa’s network of long distance trade routes, starting in the kingdom of Ashanti through Timbuktu and Mopti to Cairo. RSVP this FREE event here.

At 7.30pm is a Celebratory Presentation on Olaudah Equaino at the Marcus Garvey Library, 1 Philip Lane, Tottenham Green, N15 4JA. This event celebrates the 225^th Anniversarty of the publication of The Interesting Narrative on the Life of Olaudah Equaino or Gustavus Vassa The African in 1789, the seminal book by this Nigerian born slave, sailor and merchant who regained his freedom and became a sailor, author and merchant. This is a FREE event.

Wednesday 30^th April

At 5.00pm the Overseas Development Institute presents Zambia at 50: Engaging Diaspora in inclusive development at ODI, 203 Blackfriars Road, Southwark, SE1 8NJ. this launch of the roundtable report will give participants and opportunity to reflect on the proceedings of DfAD Zambia Roundtable discussion, with Paul William Lumbi (Zambia High Commissioner), Chibwe Henry (Diaspora for African Development), Annie Lane (International Organisation for Migration), Onyekachi Wambu (AFFORD), Miniya Chibuye (institute of Development Studies), Dr Jennie Jewitt (Transplant Links) and Siddo Deya, (Comic Relief). Register for this FREE event here. 

At 6.30pm is Uncle Errol’s World Famous Poetry Jam at the Trispace Gallery, N001 The Biscuit Factory, Tower Bridge Business Complex, Drummond Road, SE16 4DG. Featuring Jah-Mir Early, surprise drop in guests, singers, storyteller, saxophonists and Open Mic.

Thursday 1^st May

At 12.30pm National Black Women’s Network hosts Understanding the Role of the Firearms Unit in the City at Bishopsgate Police station, 182 Bishopsgate, EC2M 4NP. This informative and topical session and Q&A with the City of London Police will allow participants to discuss issues related to the police and the use of firearms in the community, understand the decision making process required for major incidents and planned firearm operations, see what training is required and the training facilities. Register for this FREE event here..

At 6.00pm the London School of Economics presents The Borderlands of South Sudan in Room 2.02, Clement House, LSE, Houghton Street, WC2A 2AE. chaired by Mareike Schomerus (LSE) with Oystein Rolandsen, Edward Thomas, Christopher Vaughan and Lotje de Vries, who are all authors of the recently published book ‘The Borderlands of South Sudan’ who will debate the issues raised by the creation of South Sudan from a historical and anthropological perspective. More details about this FREE event here. 

Friday 2^nd May

From 8.15am to 8.30pm is The 3rd Annual Igbo Conference  at the Brunei Gallery, SOAS, Thornhaugh Street. Themed Igbo Heritage: Production, Diffusion and Legacy this 2 day conference will comprise of plenary panels, Igbo cultural performances and workshops, aiming to encourage and promote Igbo Studies in the UK. Starting with a complimentary breakfast of akara, there will be panel discussions on Renegotiating Aspects of Igbo Heritage, Igbo Heritage and the Arts, roundtables on Compiling Igbo language Dictionaries, Food Diet and Lifestyle. Keynote speeches Tribute to Professor Thurston Shaw by Dr Pamela Shaw, Chike Azuonye (Nigeria Art Society UK), Tribute to Professor Catherine Acholonu by Dr Chikwendu Anyanwu, entertainment will be provided by a new play Equiano, the Enslaved African and ICSN Dance troupe. Register for £30.00 each day or £50.00 for both days (£20.00 concs each day, £30.00 for both) from here. 

At 7.30pm is Nubian Expressions Nu Jazz and African Music Event at Yaa Asantewaa Carnival Arts Centre, 1Chippenham Mews, W9 2AU. Featuring Senegalese kora master Diabel Cissoko and Kevin Haynes Grupo Elegua Tickets are £12.00 from here and £15.00 on the door. 

At 8.00pm is Mama Africa-KMT’s Birthday Party at Arch 365, 15-16 Lendall Terrace, SW4 7UX. With DJ’s Bogossy Freshfrenchy, Suga Kan’n, KMT Freedom Teacher, Dancers, Singers and artists

At 8.00pm Natty presents Vibes and Pressure Shubeen at Passing Clouds, 1 Richmond Road, Dalston, E8 4AA. Hosted by RTKAL featuring Asheber and the Afrikan Revolution, Subaja and Garwe and wtih strong acoustic sessions featuring Natty and friends, with DJ’s Mutant Hi-fi and Marshalleck Movements. Admission is £5.00 before 10.00pm, £8.00 till 11.00pm and £10.00 thereafter.

Saturday 3^rd May

At 8.15am is The 3rd Annual Igbo Conference at the Brunei Gallery, SOAS. The Second Day of this  2 day conference themed Igbo Heritage: Production, Diffusion and Legacy will have panel discussions on Igbo Heritage in the Diaspora(s), Igbo Heritage, cultural Production and Vocation, Igbo Spirituality and the Igbo Worldview. There will be a workshop on Natural Black Hair Care and then keynote speaker Professor Douglas B. Chambers (the University of Southern Mississippi) discussing The Igbo Diaspora in the Era of the Slave Trade: Historical and Cultural Connection followed by a screening of Obi Emeleonye’s film, Onye Ozi and a masquerade performance. Register for £30.00 either day or £50.00 for both days (£20.00 concs either day, £30.00 for both) from here. 

From 11.00am to 6.00pm is the African Bridal Show Spring Edition at Stratford Old Town Hall, 29 Broadway, E15 4BQ. this unique event showcase the best of African and Caribbean wedding vendors and businesses, seminars on Gele  artistry, planning a cost effective wedding, finding the perfect wedding dress etc, fabric and fashion designs and a free goody bag. Register for this FREE event here. 

At 7.00pm Food for People hosts Ghanaian Themed Musical Fundraiser at The Yaa Asantewaas Arts Centre . With music from the UMPATACUM Afri Brazilian Band, guest dancer Carolina Adewale and the Muraldo DC Dances and delicious food. Funds for this event will go to a Food for people project in Ghana feeding 400 people, tickets are £9.00 from here. 

At 7.00pm is Black African Women Rock Launch at Antoinette Hotel, Beaufort Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 2TQ. This is the first year anniversary of Black African Women Rock a platform to motivate and inspire women to pursue their dreams. Tickets are £3.00 from here.

At 7.00pm 2Face Idibia will be performing at The Kentish Town Forum, 9-17 Highgate Road, Kentish Town, NW5 1JY. The Nigerian afrobeats icon will be performing live on stage supported by DJ Abrantee. Tickets are £15.00 from here.

At 8.00pm is Grupo Raizes de Rua and Awakened Spirit at Fairly Square, 51 Red Lion Street, WC1R 4PF. KMT the Freedom Teacher will be celebrating his birthday with Capoeria Music from 2 groups. Admission is £5.00.

At 8.30pm Afro-Palace Live Session- Yaaba Funk- ‘My Vote dey Count’ Album, Launch at The New Empowering Church, 1a Westgate Street, Dalston, E8 3RL. Yaaba Funk will be releasing their second album ‘My Vote dey count’ with special guests like trumpeter Byron Wallen and saxophonist Jason Yarde. Also performing are Kaktsitsi Drummers, traditional Ghanaian Ga drummers with roots in Jamestown and United Vibrations a groovy quartet playing jazz, afro, psychedelia and punk. Tickets are £10.00 from here, £12.00 on the door. 

Sunday 4^th May

From 12.00pm to 8.00pm is Natural November in May at Lambeth Town Hall, Brixton Hill, Brixton, SW2 1RW. With seminars, stalls, shows and services. Seminars from Sister E (Calabash Hub), Gloria Andrews (Quanace Skincare), Jurne Azubiah, Toyin Agbetu (Ligali), International Administrative service and Ansylla (International Hairitage Award, USA). Tickets are £7.50 from here and £10.00 on the door. FREE for under 16 and over 60’s.

At 7.00pm Focus Organisation present Afro Festival Vibes at Floripa, 91-93 Great Eastern Street, EC2A 3HZ.  The Congolese Soukous masters Kasai Masai with Parisien acoustic reggae master Commandant Atse with DJ’s T-Roy Broadcite with DJ Viv on the decks. FREE before 8.00pm, £5.00 before 10.00pm and £10.00 thereafter. Or £15.00 to get a FOCUS T shirt as well from here. 

At 7.00pm is the launch of Trav and Baba’s Laugh Lounge at Biagio Bankside, 32 Southwark Bridge Road, SE1 9EU. Comedians Travis Jay and Babatunde will be launching their new bi weekly Laugh Lounge with a show headlining Kevin J, Kae Kurd, Junior Booker, Mickey Carpenter and 1 audience voted member. Tickets are £8.00 in advance from here, £10.00 on the door.

At 8.00pm is the UK Premiere of the new Nollywood/ US film Ortega and His Enemies at Odeon Greenwich, Bugsby Way, Greenwich, SE10 0QJ. Tickets start from £15.00

Week of 21st April: I want to Work in Africa, Akale Wube, 13th Annual Africa Business Summit, Focus-Best from Africa: Senegal meets Zimbabwe, Making it Big in Events, Ebony Inspired, Contemporary Somali Culture, Celebrate Pangaea, What were Black People doing in World War 1, iCAN Networking, Namvula at SOAS, Open the Gate, Aziza Brahim

Suba (greetings in Maasai)

Another interesting week for Proud to be African Clothing with lots of live music, film, theatre, Networking and presentations.

Half of a Yellow Sun is still on in theatres, we need to push it up the box office

Have a great week!

Monday 21st April Easter Monday

Nothing is happening, stay in bed and sleep

Tuesday 22^nd April

At 7.00pm The Frontline Club presents #FCBBCWS: Egypt’s Roadmap at The Frontline Club, 13 Norfolk Place, W2 1QJ. This panel discussion will examine the military authorities roadmap to Egypt’s second democratic elections since the fall of Mubarak, with Khalid Abdalla (Zero Production) an others. Tickets are £12.50 (£10.00 concs) from here.

Wednesday 23^rd April

At 12.00pm SEER presents an Exhibition of Ed Mpisaunga at The Crypt Gallery of St Pancras Church, Euston Road, NW1 2BA. The Zimbabwean painter and illustrator fascination with the universe and the invisible curtain between this world and the next  is symbolised in his work. Running till 26^th April, admission is FREE

At 6.00pm the Royal African Society hosts I want to work in Africa in the Brunei Suite, SOAS, Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square, WC1E 7HX. Chaired by John Battersby (Brand South Africa), the panel Onyekachi Wambu (AFFORD), Ike Anya (Nigeria Health Watch), this will discuss the themes in Frances Mensah Williams (author and HR Consultant), I want to work in Africa a step by step guide with stories and tips from people who have successfully made the trip back to Africa. RSVP this FREE event here. 

At 6.00pm is Ebony Inspired UK in the Haldanes Room, UCL, Wilkins Building, Gower Street, WC1E 6BT. This business, networking and social event for black professionals and entrepreneurs, is in its second year. Tickets are £15.00 in advance from here, £20.00 on the door or £5.00 for UCL students.

Thursday 24^th April

At 7.00pm The Mosaic Rooms presents Contemporary Somali Culture at The Mosaic Rooms, A.M. Qattan Foundation, Tower House, 226 Cromwell Road, SW5 0SW. this panel discussion reflects on contemporary Somali culture with Nadifa Mohamed (novelist), Ismail Einashe (journalist), Rashid Ali (architect) and other guests. Followed by a Q&A, RSVP this FREE event by email. 

At 7.00pm London African Startups hosts Business Networking at Jamies Bar, 10-18 London Bridge Street, SE1 9SG. This is a business networking event for London based African start ups in order to find start up peers, build networks, get advice and tips. RSVP via the Meetup Group for £1.00 here.

At 7.00pm the Saatchi Gallery presents Celebrate Pangaea at The Saatchi Gallery, Duke of Yorks HQ, Kings Road, SW3 4RY. Nigerian born composer and performance artist Helen Parker-Jayne of The Venus Bushfires will perform a captivating live set interpreted by contemporary African dance, this performance is in light of the Saatchi Gallery’s new exhibition Pangaea: New Art from Africa and Latin America. Tickets are £5.00 (including a drink) from here

At 7.30pm English PEN hosts Poetry and Protest-Campaign for Enoh Meyomese at Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, E1 6LA. Hosted by Shane Solanki, this event highlights PENs campaign for the release of imprisoned Camerounian poet Enoh Meyomese, with an open mic from Student PEN, followed by a panel discussion on ‘How to be a literary activist’ with Sophie Mayer (poet and activist), Laila Sumpton (poet and writer) and James Byrne (The Wolf Magazine) followed by performances from Sonority Turner (slam poet) and Aoife Mannix (poet and novelist). Tickets are £5.00 from here.

At 7.30pm The Mama Jumbe Book Club meets at Mama Jumbe’s, 350 Katherine Road, E7 8NW, where they will be discussing short stories everyone can relate to the accompaniant of music by DJ Gabe, they will be reading Miss Lora by Junot Diaz. More details about this FREE event here.

At 6.30pm movebacktonigeria.com hosts Networking Drinks and Property in Nigeria at The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Tower of London, 7 Pepys Street, EC3N 4AF. This event will consist of a presentation and Q&A with Femi Akintunde about the Lekki Pearl Development, followed by a networking drinks reception. Register for this FREE event here.

Friday 25^th April

At 6.00pm is iCAN Social Networking Evening at La Tasca, 12 Hertsmere Road, Canary Wharf, E14 4AE. This informal networking event for African/ Caribbean workers and professionals. Come with business cards or just come to chill and hang out with people like you, RSVP and more information about this FREE event here. 

At 6.00pm Purple Page’s presents the African and Caribbean Relocation and Investment Summit 2014 at The Phoenix Centre, 73 Oxford Street, W1D 2EP. This event presents a common platform for African and Caribbean businesses ad potential investors. Admission is £5.00 from here. 

At 6.30pm Black History Walks hosts What were Black People doing in World War 1 in The Blue Room, BFI Southbank, Belvedere Road, South Bank, SE1 8XT. Covering WW1 in Southern and Western Africa and the role of Colonial troops in the struggles and victories (or defeats) of the Imperial Powers. Register for this FREE event here.

At 7.00pm Namvula will be playing her Zambian Afro-Folk in the Brunei Suite, SOAS. Drawing heavily on her Zambian heritage as well as her Scottish roots the accomplished acoustic singer will be producing her unique uplifting sound. Email to reserve a FREE place, more details here. 

At 7.00pm is the Mobile Chic Boutique and Phoenix Centre Launch Party at The Phoenix Centre, 73 Oxford Street, W1D 2EP. With pop up shops, Caribbean and English cuisine, ice cream parlour and beauty treatment room. This launch includes a FREE cocktail reception, RSVP here.

At 7.00pm is Come Rhyme with Bang Said The Gun at Cottons Islington, 70 Exmouth Market, EC1R 4QP. Hosted by Dean Atta and Deanna Rodgers, the Appetizers are the 6 open mic slots, followed by the Starter Dan Cockrill, main course, Peter Hayhoe and Dessert Laurie Bolger, all in a chilled Caribbean themed atmosphere. Admission with Caribbean supper is £12.50 (£10.00 concs) or £7.00 for the show only from here. 

At 8.00pm is Making it Big in Events in the Conference Centre, Hughes Perry Hall, Cartwright Gardens, University of London, WC1B 5DN. This event presents the opportunity to earn from industry experts what it takes to organise the perfect event. Hosted by Amina Habeeb (Model/ Bllgger) with Pauline Long (BEFFTA Awards), China L’One DJ/ Entrepreneur), Afi Ofori (Zars Media), Anikk Rau (Pony Express) , Faith Kalejaiye (Deizi Events), Ruth Odunuga (360 Hype Wedding and Event Management and Lexy Boahene). Q&A’s, light refreshments, networking, business pitches, games and more.  Tickets are £10.00 from here. 

At 8.00pm is Open the Gate at Passing Clouds, 1 Richmond Road, Dalston, E8 4AA.  Featuring live performances from Afriquoi, playing African dance music with kora, Congolese guitar and deep house vocals, Renkon Band playing Japanese reggae and blues, soulful indie music form Jessie Lee, with DJs Volta 45, Chief Commander Yaaba, Oli Hurez. Admission  is FREE before 9.00pm, £5.00 before 10.00pm and £10.00 thereafter

At 8.00pm the African Business Networking Group hosts the Networking Mixer Party at the South Bank Bar, 57-59 Camberwell Road, SE5 0EZ. This event is for African professionals, entrepreneurs and business owners to mix, mingle and network. Admission is £5.00 on the door

At 9.30pm singer/ songwriter Fidel will be performing at The Spice of Life, 6 Moor Street,m W1D 5NA. Admission is £6.00 on the door

Saturday 26 ^th April

At 7.30am the London Business School presents The 13^th Annual Africa Business Summit at RCOG, London Business School, Sussex Place, Regents Park, NW1 4SA. Themed ‘Beyond the Hype: The Not for tourists Guide to Investing in Africa’, the event will feature keynote speakers such as Ben Magara (Lonmin), Colin Coleman (Goldman Sachs), James Mwangi (Equity Bank), Justine Greening MP (Secretary of State for International Development), Okechukwu Enelamah (African Capital Alliance), Sanusi Lamido Sanusi (ex Governor Central Bank of Nigeria) and Souad Benbachir (CFG Group). Followed by a gala evening with dinner and live African entertainment. Tickets start from £160.00 from here.  www.lbsabs.org 

At 2.00pm the Deptford Film Club presents a Film Africa Triple Bill at the New Cross Inn, 323A New Cross Road, New Cross, SE14 6AS. Starting with Soul Boy (Kenya, PG) a family friendly story of a young teenagers epic adventure across Nairobi, Coz Oz Moni (Ghana, PG) at 3.00pm, a hilarious pidgin English musical by Ghanaian hip hop stars FOKN Bois and Tey/ Aujourd’Hui (Senegal, 12) a lyrical walk through Dakar on the last day of your life. FREE entry to all

At 2.00pm African Odysseys screens Comrade President: The Story of Samora Machel and the fight for Freedom in Southern Africa at The BFI Southbank. This documentary about Mozambiques revolutionary leader Samora Moises Machel is told through rare footage and interviews. Admission is £6.00 from here. 

At 7.00pm Focus Organisation presents Best From Africa: Senegal meets Zimbabwe- Mbira Music Vs Mbalax at Passing Clouds. Featuring Zimbaremabwe a musical collective led by Linos Wengara Magaya practicing and playing Mbira music, Senegalese guitarist and singer Abdoluaye Samb will be performing with his band Minnjiaraby ,  with DJs JP Kairo  playing Downstairs and DJ Yaaba Funk playing upstairs. FREE before 9.00pm, £5.00 before 10.30pm £8.00 in advance from here.

At 8.00pm Akale Wube will be back at Rich Mix. This Parisien Ethiojazz quintet inspired by the legendary Ethiopiques series, have recreated the classic Ethiopian jazz sound with horns, drums, and guitars. They are joined by vocalist Genet Assefa of Krar Collective  Tickets are £15.00 (£12.50 in advance) from here. 

Sunday 27^th April

At 1.00pm Africa4U presents The Small World Community Concert at The White Lion, 234 Streatham High Road, Streatham, SW16 1BB. Featuring Elaka (performing artist), O Rael (performing artist), Akpos Ogagbe (Comedian), Ferdinand Lawson (writer), Madam Mary Ajoke (community ambassador), Derek Dziv (motivational speaker),  Dorothy Dix (Creating Brighter Features), Ali Skuse (Speaker on health), James Kiriamiti (community ambassador), Wayne Bouycard Radio presenter), Nia Conscious Brother, Dark Zac (Zimlink). This is a FREE event, more details here.

At 7.00pm Aziza Brahim will be performing at St Pancras Old Church, 191 Pancras Road, Kings Cross, NW1 1UL. The Western Sahara singer will be performing tracks from her new album Soutak, combining her Saharan roots and her current Spanish residence. Tickets are £14.00 in advance from here and £16.00 on the door.

At 7.00 pm Uncle Errol presents True Stories at The Tea House Theatre, 139 Vauxhall Walk, Vauxhall, SE11 5HL, featuring he warm, fiery, passionate poet Karmelle and an open mic. Admission is £5.00

Week of 14th April: Half of a Yellow Sun on General Release, Thats Our History in Them London Streets, International Black Women’s Festival, Jamaica Hidden Histories, Numbi Rhythm Workshop, Word4Word, Jazz Jamaica, Kingston 14, Watch Me flow, Pan African Business Expo, IrelandNigeria 2014.

Kedu,

Its been a good week for Proud to be African Clothing, Half of a Yellow Sun finally went on general release

with several sold out previews and a gala première and directors Q&A. This Easter week sees plays, music, Business expos, spoken word, movies and much more.

Future events to look out for are the BTWSC Look How Far We’ve Come Conference on 8^th May, tickets, background, stalls and literature display space are all available here.

Half of a Yellow Sun Review

I guess it is finally time to share my review the film, a task have been putting off. I should obviously declare my interests prior to starting, I am Nigerian, Igbo, in one of my lives an amateur military historian of post 1945 conflicts of which the Nigerian Civil War is one, a great fan of the book Half of a Yellow Sun, its author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie who I consider to be a voice, if not the leading Nigerian voice of my generation, director Biyi Bandele who I discovered through his book Burma Boy (which is also crying out to be a film) and lead actor Chiwetel Ejiofor about whom I really don’t need to say much- if you don't know ask somebody.

The story for those unfamiliar with the book is about 2 sisters from a wealthy Nigerian family who at Nigeria’s independence set out on very different romantic paths, the cool, distant, sophisticated Kainene (Anika Noni Rose) begins a relationship with Richard (Joseph Mawle) an English writer whilst living the luxurious life of the Nigerian upper class while Olanna (Thandie Newton) settles down with a radical University lecturer Odenigbo (Chiwetel  Ejiofor) in the sleepy, comfortable university town of Nsukka. Olanna and Odenigbo’s idyllic life is interrupted by Odenigbo’s mother- portrayed brilliantly by Onyeka Onwenu (the finest Nigerian singer of the 1980’s metamorphed into a Nollywood actress) who through machinations brings about a rupture that spreads across both sisters relationships, this domestic discord is matched by the even greater crisis rocking the country first with a coup against the corrupt National Government and then a counter coup and subsequent massacres of Eastern Nigerian’s (mainly Igbo's) who were ‘blamed’ for the first coup. The massacres lead to the secession of the Eastern part of Nigeria as an independent country the Republic of Biafra. Whilst this is happening a baby is born and Olanna and Odenigbo flee repeatedly from the advancing Federal troops, sinking deeper and deeper into penury, experiencing the loss and deprivations of war.

It is a very typical story on many levels. 

The story of war is typical of Eastern Nigerians of that (my parents) generation; a story of massacred relatives, abandoned property, fleeing, always fleeing, euphoria, defeat, refugees, hunger, death, fear and loss but also of life, love, belief and hope.

It is a very Nigerian story on the surface with all the typical ingredients of mismatched lovers, scheming mother, unfaithful men and wronged heartbroken women, but it also tells the story of Nigerian strength and resilience in the face of adversity. The beauty of the book is that it told these very typical stories in an accessible way, with beautiful prose and deep complex characters.

There are 3 main narrators or characters in the book; Ugwu the houseboy, Richard and Olanna. There are those (i.e. me) who believe it is Ugwu’s story; believing that he represents the Nigerian dream and nightmare in extremis, the curse of poverty and the redemptive nature of education, a belief that is almost religious in its acceptance in Nigeria, it is through him many of the books most touching conversations take place and through his eyes the horror of war and the ambiguous nature of evil is expressed. It is also through Ugwu that one of the most interesting plot twists and endings emerges. Others believe it is Richards’s story, the contemplative foreigner, an outsider who comes to love the land, people and a particular person and can thus look on the situation with the fierce, fanatic loyalty of a convert but also the uncomfortable distance of 'the other'. Or finally Olanna’s story, the poor little rich girl, too good, too beautiful and too naive for her own good, gradually discovering her strength as others lose theirs and the world collapses around her. A running metaphor for the inner strength of Nigerian women which is not just true but unfortunately an everyday experience in past and present Nigeria.

Half of a Yellow Sun is thus an extremely difficult book to make into a film, it has so many layers, characters, sub, side and corner corner plots that there is no way all of these can be fit into a feature film. It is not chronological. Thus the film seeks to tell the story in a linear manner using Olanna as the focus.

I will start with the negatives, so I can get them out of the way. I think Thandie Newton should have been Kainene and Annika Noni Rose; Olanna- whether Rose’s British accent could have sustained the entire movie we don’t know but I think Newton fit the slim, cold, complex and rigid Kainene much better, while Rose actually looks like a typical voluptuous, sensuous and warm Igbo girl. I understand the reasons for the casting but it would been better swapped round. 

Ugwu (played by John Boyega) is rather criminally underused, a single scene of him after conscription would have been an opportunity to give a perspective of life for Biafran soldiers and also allowed Boyega to have more dialogue and range than ‘Yes ma, No sah’. Very little is shown of the war itself and the violence that precedes it is covered in two fairly crucial scenes, obviously war scenes are expensive but they are a fundamental part of the book. However the most irritating part is the ending, there were so many endings in the book, that could have been used which not only neatly tied up the story but also gave a certain redemptive or emotive feel to it which were not used.

To be honest virtually all the other negatives are understandable and can be explained away by budget, time or casting issues but the abrupt ending is curious.

Ejiofor delivers as always a calm perfect performance, embodying Odenigbo down to the beard and mannerisms, the book doesn't develop Odenigbo much, making Ejiofor wring all he can from the role. For those who only discovered this fine actor with 12 Years a Slave, please seek out his earlier films (Dirty Pretty Things, GMT, Serenity, Children of Men, 4 Brothers etc) or else wait until he is on stage again (Othello, A Season in Congo etc). If he has not got an Oscar in the next 2 years something is massively wrong. Newton despite the controversy of her casting takes to her role well, Rose carries off Kainene bringing in the sarcastic, dry wit much better towards the end with good lines and a dignified poise.

The stand out performances are from Onyeka Onwenu as the scheming Mama a role she plays with such relish that one must genuinely fear for her daughters in law, the gift however is not so much in her being able to convey it but more in the timing and delivery of her lines, the phrases and mannerisms and implacability of her resolve are all very Nigerian. 

Genevieve Nnaji as Ms Adebayo is outstanding making the most of the tiny role she is given to again deliver a strong performance unfortunately the character in the book and the film are way too small for her to do anything interesting but she still manages to own the Ms Adebayo character, turning her into an arch, sexy foil to Olanna an embodiment of the ‘home based’/ ‘been to’ dichotomy that informs a lot of Nigerian banter. In fact in the context of her performance she would have made a more logical temptress than the actual hapless one. One hopes she has a good agent who can use this is as a cross over vehicle for her and generate more roles in major movies after this. 

Mawle is credible as Richard, channelling his awkwardness, besotted infatuation and otherness. There are cameo turns by other Nollywood stars such as Zack Orji and O.C. Ukeje, but there is never enough time or depth to properly develop anyone other than Olanna thus they are simply lucky to get a line or two.

In conclusion this film always had huge oversized clown shoes to fill and would have disappointed the books admirers whatever it did. The only true way to represent Half of a Yellow Sun is in a 10 or more part mini series and even then it will be difficult.

However this film has great scenes, great scenery and cinematography and great actors and acting. It is the embodiment of the Achebeism that if you don’t like how someone tells your story to tell it yourself, thus it was with an outsize sense of pride that I watched this Nigerian film, made with funds raised by Nigerian bankers, starring Nigerian actors, based on a book by a young Nigerian, written and directed by a Nigerian and filmed in Nigeria.

It is an important film for all these reasons alone, besides being a good story and an interesting film, I will see it again, and again, and take my family, friends and colleagues, and when it comes out on DVD, will be my gift for this year.

Half of a Yellow Sun, out now in print and on the big screen. The next time the world will not be silent while we die.

Monday 14^th April

At 6.00pm is Xtra History and Reasoning: That’s Our History In Them London Streets at Mayor’s Parlour, Harrow Civic Centre, 1 Station Road, Harrow, HA1 2XY. RSVP this FREE event from here.

At 6.00pm the International Black Women’s Film Festival screens B is for Boy at Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, E1 6LA This debut film by Chika Anadu features a middle class wife and daughter who at nearly 40 loses her unborn male child, in desperation she fakes a pregnancy rather than tell her husband. Followed by a Q&A with Louisa Egbunike and Yvonne Mbanefo. Tickets are £9.50 from here. 

From 9.00am to 4.00pm is the African Business Management Course at Regents University, Inner Circle, Regents Park, NW1 4NA. This fully accredited 3 Day Level 6 Course is designed to give a practical view of working and conducting business in Africa. Course fees are £1,500.00, from here

From 10.30am to 3.30pm is Jamaica Hidden Histories Workshops at Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, E1 6LA. This Graphic Design and Video Workshop is for 18-25 year old so will teach techniques about creating successful brands. Not only is this FREE but volunteers will be able to claim £18.00 per day for travel and subsistence. Email ElamForrester to reserve a place.

At 6.00pm The Royal African Society hosts Algeria Elections 2014: No Time for Change in the Brunei Suite, SOAS, Thornhaugh Street, WC1E 7HX. Chaired by Jon Marks (Cross Border Information) with Imad Mesdoua (Mintz Group), Claire Spencer (Chatham House) and Jonathan Hill (KCL), the panel will be assessing Algeria’s current political trajectory as the 2014 elections see the aging President Bouteflika possibly elected for a 4^th term. Register for this FREE event here.  

At 6.00pm the Ka Tutandike Trust UK presents Social Entrepreneurship- A bold new approach to tackling poverty at Nedbank, Millennium Bridge House, 2 Lambeth Hill, EC4V 4GG. This panel will address the use of social enterprises as opposed to the traditional donor dependant model. The panel will consist of Stephen Brenninkmeijer (Willows Investment), Richard Dowden (Royal African Society), Susan Kisitu (Ka Tutandike Trust), Vinay Nagaraju (Riders For Health), Conall O’ Caomiah (Value Added in Africa) and Hans H. Wahl (INSEAD). Register for this FREE event here.

At 6.00pm is the IrelandNigeria Fashion Show 2014 at Rich Mix. This evening of fashion, live music, to launch IrelandNigerias new line ‘IN’ aimed at 16-36 year old men and women. Register for this FREE event here.

Tuesday 15^th April

At 7.00pm is Spoken Word Hysteria at Hysteria Dalston, 578 Kingsland Road, Dalston, E8 4AH. Hosted by Uncle Errol featuring 3 female spoken words; Kemi ‘Demerara’ Taiwo, Melinda Nampiima and Melissa Melody with an open mic as well.

Wednesday 16^th April

At 1.30pm the Overseas Development Institute presents Remittances to Africa: cutting the cost, harnessing the potential at ODI, 203 Blackfriars Road, Southwark, SE1 8NJ. This half day event identifies ways  in which remittances could play a more powerful role in spurring development of sub-Saharan African economies. Register for this FREE event here. 

At 7.30pm The Mosaic Rooms screens Notes for An African Oresteia at The Mosaic Rooms, A.M. Qattan Foundation, Tower House, 226 Cromwell Road, SW5 0SW. Italian directors Pier Paolo Pasolini visual notes for a feature film he planned to make in the 1970’s juxtaposing Aeschylus Orestes trilogy with African politics make up this 65 minute film. Tickets are £5.00 from here

Thursday 17^th April

From 10.00am to 6.00pm is the Pan-African Business Expo at The Great Hall, Kings College London, Strand, WC2R 2LS. This event seeks to promote, challenge and motivate the economic and social empowerment of the African Caribbean communities. Speakers include Wilfred Emmanuel Jones (The Black Farmer), Sonia Brown MBE (National Black Women’s Network), Michael Parker CBE (Kings College Hospital Trust), John Hilary (War on Want), Muzvare HRH Betty Makoni (Girl Child Network Worldwide), Bryan Treherne (UKTI), Mavis Amankwah (Rich Visions), Sam Onigbanjo (Women4Africa), Kiran Patel (MGR Weston Lay LLP), Daphne Kasambala (Sapelle), Stephanie Chiyangwa (Help Us Help Ourselves), Vava Tampa (Save the Congo) and Jenny Okafor (Nigrian Women in Diaspora Leadership). Admission starts from FREE to £150.00 from here.

At 7.00pm is Afterwork with Business Talk and Party at UnderSolo Bar, 22 Inverness Street, Camden, NW1 7HJ. Between 7.00pm and 9.00pm is the networking/ mix and mingle event, from 8.00pm, George Ruddock (Voice Newspaper) and Wendel Clement (Campbells of London) will share their career highlights and what they consider to be key success factors from an African Caribbean perspective, from 9.00pm is a Caribbean themed party with Jay Sun Bailante and Triple M. FREE before 9.00pm, £5.00 from 9.00pm till 11.00pm

At 7.30pm is Watch Me Flow at Vibe Bar, 91-95 Brick Lane, E1 6QL. This yearly Easter event is a fusion of live music, visual art and poetry in aid of a nominated charity. Admission is £10.00 from here with funds going to Awal Children of the Future. 

At 7.30pm is the Jamaica Hidden Histories Showcase at Rich Mix, Freddie Notes will be taking the audience through a musical journey of early Jamaican music spanning 70 years. This is a FREE event, more details here.

Friday 18^th April

At 7.30pm is Kingston 14 at Theatre Royal, Stratford East, Gerry Raffles Square, Stratford, E15 1BN. this gripping police corruption drama set in modern day Jamaica follows A British police officer sent to Kingston to investigate the murder of British tourist. Starring Goldie, Charles Venn, Trevor Laird and Brian Bovell. Running till 26 April ticket start from £10.00 from here.

Saturday 19^th April

At 7.00pm LISF presents Jazz Jamaica at The Jazz Cafe, 5 Parkway, Camden Town, NW1 7PG. Jazz Jamaica will play the hit sounds of Young Jamaica, with The Phoenix City All Stats and special guest Rhoda Dakar. Tickets are £15.00 from here.
 

From 12.30pm is the IBW Short Film Showcase at Rich Mix. Featuring 5 innovative shorts; Maybe another Time (Martinique, 2013), Scissors (Sizo) (Martinique, 2013), In Between (Martinique, 2013), The Tings I see (UK/ USA, 2013) and Small World (UK, 2013). Followed by a Q&A with Ethosheia Hylton (director Small World). Tickets are £9.50 from here

Sunday 20^th April

At 11.00am is the Numbi Rhythm Workshops at Rich Mix, this rhythmic jam session lead by Numbi guest artists Nadia Al Faghih Hasan and Freddy Macha. Tickets are £10.00 (£5.00 concs) from here.

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At 12.30pm the IBW Film Festival screens Looking for Claudia Jones at Rich Mix. This documentary about Claudia Jones by Nia Reynolds narrated by Josette Simmons is followed by a directors Q&A. Tickets are £9.50

At 12.30pm the IBW Film Festival screens Night Husbands (Maris de nuit) at Rich Mix a film about the Caribbean, female loneliness and sexuality, followed by a Q&A.

At 7.00pm is Soul Acoustic at Rich Mix, hosted by DJ Ronnie Herel, this collection of singer song writers headlined by Don E, with We Are Dora Martin, Incisive, Hayley Cassidy, Esco Williams, Heston, Christopher Ellis and J Appiah. This is a FREE event.

At 8.00pm is Word4Word at Theatre Royal, Stratford East. Hosted by Kat Francois, with a Slam competition, of 10 poets, 3 rounds and a £50.00 for the winner and singer songwriter Asabi Hawah as guest. There is also an open mic at his FREE event 

Week of 7th April: Half of a Yellow Sun UK Premiere and Cinema Release, Salif Keita, Lesotho’s Prime Minister, London Afrobeat Collective, Ibibio Sound Machine, Rwandan Genocide, African Peacebuilders, A State of Our Own: Second Independence, Federalism and the Decolonisation of the State in Africa, The Black Market

Kedu!!!

It’s a good week for Proud to be African Clothing!

Half of a Yellow Sun will premiere on Wednesday at Odeon Streatham and General Release on Friday.

The Premiere is already sold out so start booking for the later days. The greatest boost that African cinema will get is if this film is sold out every day, so let’s vote with our money and our time.

We have movies, lots of live music, markets, theatre, seminars and presentations.

Have a great week

Monday 7^th April

From 10.30am to 3.30am is the Jamaican Hidden Histories at Rich Mix, 35-7 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, E1 6LA. Consisting of a 5 day Spoken Word Worksop exploring Jamaican patois, imagery and music, a Graphic Design and Video Workshop, teaching techniques for creating successful brand and marketing inspired by Jamaican products. For 18-25 year olds, please volunteer by emailing Elam Forrester. Not only is this FREE but you will be eligible for £18.00 per day for travel and subsistence. 

At 3.00pm Chatham House presents Lesotho’s Domestic Priorities and Global Interests: Small Country Levers for international Influence at the Royal Institute for International Affairs, Chatham House, 10 St James Square, SW1Y 4LE. Dr Motsoahae Thomas Thabane (Prime Minister of Lesotho) will discuss how his government seeks to address Lesotho’s domestic issues such as HIV, power and service delivery and how it seeks to exert its influence in Southern Africa. To attend contact Chris Vandome.

At 5.00pm is the 3ie-LIDC Seminar: Doing and using Impact Evaluations in Room B36, Birkbeck College, Malet Street, WC1E 7HX. Annie Duflo (Innovations for Poverty Action) will explore the question ‘How can we design impact evaluations as a learning tool to help us make better decisions?’ using a large scale experiment in Ghana as an example. Register for this FREE event here.

At 7.15pm the Tribal Soul Arts presents The Man Who Committed Thought at the Tristan Bates Theatre, 1A Tower Street, WC2H 9NP. This satirical farce by Patrice Najambana about a peasant seeking justice after his cow is eaten by a dictatorial President, Running till 9^th April tickets are £11.00 (£9.00 concs) from here. 

Tuesday 8^th April

At 6.00pm is Meet the Curators: A Fusion of Wolds Exhibition at The Petrie Museum, Malet Place, Camden, WC1E 6BT. The curators of the A Fusion of Worlds exhibition will discuss the reappraisal of Egyptian sculpture during the early 20^th century and the artists involved. RSVP this FREE event here. 

At 7.00pm is Poetry meets Art 7 at Passing Clouds, 1 Richmond Road, Dalston, E8 4AA. Featuring ShakaRa, Golden Blue, Lenea Herew and Pablo Imani. Tickets are £5.00 before 9.00pm and £7.00 after.

At 7.00pm is the UK Première of Half of a Yellow Sun at Odeon Cinema, 47-49 Streatham High Road, Streatham, SW16 1PW. Biyi Bandele’s adaptation of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel about the Nigerian Civil War finally goes on general release after rave reviews at film festivals and sold out preview screenings. Starring Oscar nominee Chiwetel Ejiofor, BAFTA winner Thandie Newton, Genevieve Nnaji, Onyeka Owenu, John Boyega and Annika Noni Rose. Telling the story of twin sisters from a wealthy family returning to Nigeria from an expensive education in England and their very different choices in partners, Olanna (Newton) shocks her family by going to live with her revolutionary professor lover (Ejiofor) and his loyal houseboy Ugwu (Boyega)  while Kainene becomes a businesswoman who ends up falling in love with Richard (Joseph Mawle) an English writer, whilst they are preoccupied with their lives and loves Nigeria implodes into a terrible fratricidal war, in which their love and friendships tested to the end. Tickets start from £10.50, book here.  

At 7.30pm is Salif Keita and Seckou Keita at the Barbican Centre, Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS. The Malian vocalist and kora maestro will be performing his mix of rock, funk, and jazz. The show will be opened by Seckou Keita with a special solo set Tickets start from £10.00 from here. 

Wednesday 9^th April

At 6.00pm Quakers in Britain present This Light that pushes me: Stories of African Peace builders at Friends House, 173 Euston Road, NW1 2BJ. This exhibition and accompanying book features photographs and testimonies of Quaker peacebuilders from sub Saharan Africa who have experienced some form of violence, tracing their journeys of suffering to social change. Running till 8^th May. 

At 6.00pm the Institute of Commonwealth Studies presents A State of Our Own: Second Independence, Federalism and the Decolonisation of the State in Africa at The Chancellors Hall, Senate House, Malet Street, WC1E 7HU. Chaired by Professor Philip Murphy this lecture by Professor Eghosa Osaghae examines the intriguing features of statehood and politics in Africa, arguing that the decolonisation process is incomplete. Register for this FREE event here.

At 6.30pm is a pre screening of Half of a Yellow Sun with Q&A at Odeon Cinema,Bugsby Way, SE10 0QJ. Biyi Bandele’s adaptation of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel about the Nigerian Civil War finally goes on general release after rave reviews at film festivals and sold out preview screenings. Starring Oscar nominee Chiwetel Ejiofor, BAFTA winner Thandie Newton, Genevieve Nnaji, Onyeka Owenu, John Boyega and Annika Noni Rose. Followed by a Q&A with Director Biyi Bandele and Chiewetel Ejiofor, tickets start from £11.20, book here. 

At 7.00pm the Frontline Club hosts The Rwandan Genocide: Lessons and Legacy at The Frontline Club, 13 Norfolk Place, W2 1QJ. This panel discussion features David Belton (BBC Newsnight), Eric Murangwa Eugene (Football for Hope, Peace and Unity) and additional speakers and will look back at how communities in Rwanda have been reconciled and the social, political and economic advances the country has made since the genocide. Tickets are £12.50 (£10.00 concs) from here.

Thursday 10^th April

At 7.00pm is Mailbox at The Mosaic Rooms, A.M. Qattan Foundation, Tower House, 226 Cromwell Road, SW5 0SW. Hosted by Somali British post Elmi Ali Somali-Italian novelist and poet Ubah Christina Ali Farah will discuss her experiences of growing up in Mogadishu and how it has influenced her writing, she will also read from her latest novel Madre Piccola (Little Mother) RSVP this FREE event by email.

From 10.00am to 4.00pm is Reach Societies 3rd Careers Conference at Central Hall Westminster, Storeys Gate, SW1H 9NH. Professional men from the black community will interact with young people aged 14+ to inspire and encourage them along their chosen career paths. The UCAS process will be explained, opportunities presented and the UCFB Reach Society Scholarship. With representatives from EDF Energy, Lloyds Banking Group, the Royal Navy, UCFB, Alpha BSE Training, 100 Black Men of London, ACES Youth Project, BFUWI and NBBC Association. Register for this FREE event by email.

    

At 8.00pm Lokkhi Terra presents Cubafrobeat featuring Dele Sosimi at Rich Mix. Part of the La Linea Festival this Cuban Bangladeshi Afrobeat band features members of Lokkhi Terra and Dele Sosimi Afrobeat Orchestra and will feature the premiere of their upcoming album. Admission is £12.00 in advance and £15.00 on the door 

Friday 11^th April

At 5.30pm is Roots, Culture, Identity Art Exhibition Opening Night at 23 -28 Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, WC1B 3LS. The exhibition showcases the art of young black artists curated by Zita Holbourne. This is a FREE event.

At 7.00pm is the UK wide cinema release of Half of a Yellow Sun at Odeon Cinema. Biyi Bandele’s adaptation of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel about the Nigerian Civil War finally goes on general release. Starring Oscar nominee Chiwetel Ejiofor, BAFTA winner Thandie Newton, Genevieve Nnaji, Onyeka Owenu, John Boyega and Annika Noni Rose. Telling the story of twin sisters from a wealthy family returning to Nigeria from an expensive education in England and their very different choices in partners, Olanna (Newton) shocks her family by going to live with her revolutionary professor lover (Ejiofor) and his loyal houseboy Ugwu (Boyega)  while Kainene becomes a businesswoman who ends up falling in love with Richard (Joseph Mawle) an English writer, whilst they are preoccupied with their lives and loves Nigeria implodes into a terrible fratricidal war, in which their love and friendships tested to the end. Tickets start from £10.50, book here. 

At 7.00pm The London Afrobeat Collective will be playing at The Hideaway, 2 Empire Mews, Stanthorpe Road, Streatham, SW16 2ED. The multi instrument, multi talented Afrobeat band will bring their party machine to Streatham playing new tunes, old tunes and classics! Tickets are £15.00 from here. 

At 8.00pm Afri-kokoa presents Ibibio Sound Machine Live Album, Launch Party at The Forge, 3-7 Delancey Street, Camden, NW1 7NL. The 8 pieced band fronted by vocalist Eno Williams will bring their potent mix of high life, disco, post punk and psychedelic electro soul as they launch their new album released in March. Tickets are £8.00 from here 

Saturday 12^th April

From 12.00pm to 9.00pm is the Black Market and film Festival at Platanos College, Clapham Road, Stockwell, SW9 0AL. The market will have stalls with African arts and crafts, jewellery, fashion, sincare, haircare, food, books, DVDs, toys and more. There will be Youth led film screenings and presentations. Tickets are £10.00 in advance £12.00 on the door (under 16s and OAPs FREE).

Sunday 13^th April

At 6.00pm is the Igbo Culture and Support Network April Meeting at Zubi Bar, 144 Holloway Road, N7 8DD. There will be social games, networking, interesting gist, by elections for Executive positions and plenty plenty fine fine Igbo girls and boys.

At 7.00pm is Afrobeats Live at JazzCafe, 5 Parkway, Camden, NW1 7PG. hosted by DJ Abrantee, there will be performances by UK afrobeats artistes such as Moelogo, Rotimo, Nizzy, Teejay, Zafi B, Vicky Sola, Tyroon Da Prince, FT Fresh Music, Gizmo and more. Tickets are £10.00 in advance from here, more on the door.