At the Barbs

For our fifth episode of At the Barbs we invited one of the most exciting rappers around, London-born Jelani Blackman, to join Robert and see The UK Drill Project. Developed by acclaimed theatre collective Highrise Entertainment, the show seeks to challenge myths and expectations about UK Drill music and its links to youth violence. With this scene often portrayed through a narrow media lens, this episode digs deep into what the scene is truly like.You can find out more about the show here.

This week the ‘Tottenham songbird’ herself, Miraa May, joins Robert to discuss the incredible debut performance by pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason. Alongside Isata’s performance they delve into the relationship between classical music and mainstream culture, learning your craft, creativity and self-awareness, womanhood and influences ranging from Ben Howard to Teedra Moses to Ultimate Guitar.You can find out more about the show here.

Joining Robert At the Barbs this week is revered director and writer Koby Adom. They went to see To What End, the coming together of six inspiring short performances that blend dance and live music in a truly experimental way. As well as the show, the pair explore their Ghanaian heritage, the strength and depth of African storytelling, the growing influence of African talent on mainstream media from Black Panther to Burna Boy, and celebrate the power of art to connect new people irrespective of background. You can find out more about the show here.

Joining Robert Bruce At the Barbs this week is presenter and entertainer Swarzy Macaly. The duo delve deep into Carolee Schneemann: Body Politics, the continuing media focus on body image, Beyonce, creating art in defiance of your audience, and everything from cancel culture to artist Kazvare Made It. You can find out more about the exhibition here.Warning: This episode contains conversation surrounding extreme racial violence and harassment of minors.