For Black Boys... extends West End run to June

The West End adaptation of the play has earned praise from critics and audiences alike. Owing to its popularity, For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy will continue booking through 1 June 2024.

The play opened in 2021 at the Off-West End New Diorama Theatre. It transferred theaters a few times for limited runs before opening at the Garrick Theatre earlier this year.

The play stars Tobi King Bakare, Shakeel Haakim, Fela Lufadeju, Albert Magashi, Mohammed Mansaray, and Posi Morakinyo as six young black men who meet at group therapy.

I found a king in me

For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy drew its inspiration from two major sources: the murder of Trayvon Martin in 2012 and Ntozake Shange's "choreopoem" For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When the Rainbow Is Enuf. As such, it is a deeply nuanced portrayal of the Black man's experience that focuses on mental health, masculinity, racism, and the struggles of daily life in Britain.

The play is considered a sleeper hit for several reasons, ranging from a largely Black cast and crew to its discussions of highly charged issues unique to the Black community and a premise rooted in the psychological impact of everyday microaggressions. It's not the kind of show West Enders are used to, but it is an extremely welcome change of pace. Its popularity has allowed it to extend its original nine-week limited engagement on West End to June 1.

Indulge in some food for thought with For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy, playing on West End now.