David Harewood
28 January 2025
Event details
Exploring the impact of being Black in Britain, the discussion will examine what it means to struggle, succeed, suffer, and survive, centering around David Harewood’s acting, writing and production work. Key issues will be asked, including to what extent does language and cultural difference play a part in formulating conversations around race and mental health?
Themes of masculinity, colourism and identity will be highlighted, including what it’s like growing up a Black boy, and what is the impact on Black men in adulthood. The conversation will aim to make sense of how there are conflicting opinions on what constitutes racial identity in Britain, and how open conversations can help in understanding complicated notions of identity.
There will also be the opportunity for audience questions, as well as a book signing.
The discussion will be hosted by Pascal Matthias, Vice President of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Social Justice at University of Southampton. This event forms part of Matthias’ Conflict, Communication and Compassion Conversations series of discussions with leading voices.
Presented by John Hansard Gallery in partnership with MAST Mayflower Studios, this event has been made possible through support from the University of Southampton’s Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise.
Venue
Studio 1 — MAST Mayflower Studios
Price
Age advice
Recommended age 7+
Under 2s are not allowed
Accessible Performance
Running Time
Approx. 1 hr and 45 mins (no interval)
Warnings
Some sensitive themes around race will be explored
Biog:
David Harewood OBE is an acclaimed actor, author, and activist whose work transcends screens, stages, and social boundaries. Known for his powerful performances in productions including Blood Diamond, Homeland and The Night Manager, Harewood’s career spans decades of critically acclaimed theatre, television, and film roles. Notably, in 1997 he was the first ever black actor play Othello at the National Theatre.
In addition to his artistic achievements, Harewood has become a leading voice on mental health awareness and racial equity, drawing from his own life experiences to inspire change and conversation. His 2021 memoir, Maybe I Don’t Belong Here, is a candid exploration of identity, resilience, and the intersections of race and mental health, earning widespread praise for its honesty and insight.
From receiving an OBE in 2023 for his services to drama and charity to spearheading critical cultural conversations, David Harewood continues to redefine what it means to be a transformative force in the arts and activism. This was also the year that saw him set up his Production Company Section 52 Films with his business partner Sabina Emrit Harper (his long time creative collaborator and also a Visiting Lecturer at Winchester School of Art) to now take the reigns across the storytelling of race, equality and identity.
Harewood’s influence reached new heights in 2024 when he was appointed President of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), becoming the first Black president in the institution’s history. This landmark moment reflects his enduring commitment to creating opportunities for underrepresented voices in the arts. His legacy is not just one of performance but of profound impact, both on and off the stage.
