Named in honour of the late playwright Alfred Fagon, this award celebrates and supports Black British playwrights of Caribbean or African descent. BFN’s grant helped the Alfred Fagon Award expand its reach, providing critical recognition and platforms for emerging and established voices in theatre.
The Challenge
Black playwrights are significantly underrepresented in UK theatre, facing barriers to funding, production, and visibility. The Alfred Fagon Award tackles this by:
- Awarding £6,000 annually to the best new play.
- Offering the Roland Rees Bursary for emerging writers.
- Hosting public readings and industry networking events.
BFN’s Impact
- 2024 Winners:
- Inua Ellams (Once Upon A Time in Sokoto) shared how the award provided validation during a difficult year: “2024 has been incredibly brutal for many artists. This recognition means everything.”
- Leanna Benjamin and Ilayda McIntosh received bursaries to develop their work.
- BFN’s Support:
- Funded the first filmed “In Conversation” event, featuring Yvonne Brewster OBE and Lynette Linton (Artistic Director of Bush Theatre).
- Enabled livestreaming and video production, reaching over 5,000 viewers and inspiring the next generation of Black theatre makers.
Systemic Change
The award’s founders, including Yvonne Brewster OBE and Paul Stephenson, created the prize because “Black British playwrights have a voice in this country that must be heard.” BFN’s funding ensures this legacy continues, fostering a more inclusive UK theatre landscape.
How You Can Help
- Donate to support Black-led arts initiatives.
- Attend BFN events to meet grantees like the Alfred Fagon Award.
- Follow their work and advocate for equitable funding in the arts.
“Being visible matters. BFN’s support helped us reach new audiences and amplify our mission.”—Pauline Walker, Administrator and Creative Producer, Alfred Fagon Award