Syncopated rhythms at Liverpool Playhouse Studio this autumn

Music, memory and ‘the ghosts that history forgets’ are at the heart of a new tale being given its world premiere in the Liverpool Playhouse Studio this September.

Syncopated, a co-production between the Everyman and Playhouse and Talawa Theatre Company, comes to the Williamson Square theatre from September 23 to October 4.

Set on the docks of Liverpool and featuring live music, playwright Varaidzo’s Syncopated tells the story of a chance meeting between a young musician (Him) and an inquisitive Scouser (Her).

As the night deepens, the two conjure a story from history - the journey of The Southern Syncopated Orchestra, a real-life African American band who brought the jazz rhythms of New Orleans to post-First World War Britain.

Everyman and Playhouse creative director Nathan Powell says: “We’re so happy to continue our partnership with Talawa, one of our associate companies, during their Black Joy Season.

“Realising this new show, opening here in Liverpool, is a joy of its very own. We can’t wait to share Varaidzo’s brilliant story and for it to be enjoyed by audiences in our great cities.”

Michael Buffong, Talawa’s artistic director, adds “Talawa's Black Joy season has been one of the most ambitious and successful endeavours in our nearly 40-year history.

“Bringing the season to a close with the highly anticipated studio show Syncopated is a full circle moment, nurturing new work rooted in Liverpool’s musical culture and history.

“It’s an honour to have the opportunity to collaborate with Varaidzo and the team at Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse to do what we do best: shine a light on the prodigious talents of Black and global majority creatives.

“This world premiere offers music and storytelling as redemptive, healing and a connecting bridge across generations.”

Syncopated is at the Playhouse Studio from September 23 to October 4. More details and tickets HERE