WHISPERED TALES: DISTANT DRUMS

Sat 12 JUNE,
ALL DAY 11AM-6pm

LONDON SOUND SYSTEM.jpg

The story of Reggae Sound System culture - the beating heart of Caribbean-rooted music

Distant Drums is a dynamic and thought-provoking performance that tells the story of Reggae Sound System culture and its role in the fight for racial equality. A handcrafted bespoke sound system stands proudly on a statue plinth. As the speakers power up, digital screens appear within the stack and through animated films transport the audience from Africa to the Caribbean and finally to the shores of the UK.

Written by Madu Messenger, narrated by Macka B, choreographed by Donald Edwards with a distinctive Dub soundtrack by Vibronics, Distant Drums promises to be an exhilarating performance not to be missed.

Whispered Tales works with festivals, theatres, museums and heritage sites to deliver projects that shine a light on forgotten sites and people. From large scale installations, audio trails, and bespoke performances Whispered Tales generates truly emotive audience responses.

Whispered Tales are Esther Simpson and Steve Gibbs, a creative duo each with 20 years experience in the Arts & Heritage sector. At the heart of their work is a desire to make a connection with the audience through the emotive re-telling of stories and atmospheric re-staging of long forgotten events.

Information on Covid-Secure Measures

Whilst restrictions are being lifted for outdoor performances and installations we still want to keep everyone safe and avoid large, closely packed crowds.

  • This event will be an installation without fixed performance times so we will not be laying out audience areas or putting barriers across the square. This is to reduce impact on through traffic and make it easy for everyone to enjoy the work.

  • Staff will be wearing masks or visors and be regularly sanitizing their hands. We ask that you follow their instructions closely and, if asked, make space or give way for others.

  • We ask that nobody approach the installation too closely or any of our fenced off staff areas. We've carefully sanitised these for the protection of all and are keeping access as low as possible during the day.

  • We ask everyone to be patient and not clump up as they make their way on or off the square.

  • Whilst the event is in the open air we do still encourage people to wear face covers whilst viewing the installation, especially during peak time when large numbers are likely to gather.

  • We ask that audiences respect social distancing guidelines and maintain at least 1m distance from fellow audience members outside their bubble or household. Please remember that it is not always clear who is most vulnerable.