Two hundred years ago, the slave Mary Prince published a brave autobiography that became a rallying cry for the abolitionist movement throughout the world. And the brilliant black violinist George Bridgetower – the son of a slave – was taking Europe by storm.

Featuring memorable and uplifting jazz music in the form of an opera, Bridgetower will be performed by a stunning cast of some of the UK’s top jazz performers, including Cleveland Watkiss in the title role and Jacqui Dankworth as escaped slave Mary Prince. They are joined by opera singers, a local community choir and the Julian Joseph Big Band.

An exhilarating journey from 1807 London to the most vibrant and exciting courts of Europe, Bridgetower is directed by Helen Eastman, with a libretto by author Mike Phillips and music by celebrated jazz pianist and composer Julian Joseph.

“A compelling night’s drama” The Times. “First-class jazz” Independent.

Also touring to Cambridge, Warwick, Truro, Exeter, Malvern, Sheffield, Bexhill and Manchester throughout October and November. For more information, visit www.englishtouringopera.org.uk.

Bridgetower is a co-production between English Touring Opera and the City of London Festival

For more information click here