The beat of belonging in DRUM

As the nights start to draw in, October very much feels like the beginning of the season for going to the theatre. On Wednesday 15 October, a new play called DRUM, from award-nominated writer Jacob Roberts Mensah, and director Sarah Amankwah, comes to Stanley Arts.

About two rising Ghanaian creatives working for the BBC in the sixties, DRUM grapples with themes of success, identity and assimilation as the characters manoeuvre through their new lives far from home. Although a fictional play, storytelling, music and dance is fused with archival material to capture a unique snapshot of 1960s London. Intrigued? We catch up with Sarah, the director, to find out more.

Croydonist: Why did you choose this particular play as your directorial debut?

Sarah: Jacob Roberts Mensah, who is also a good friend of mine, encouraged me to direct. Working on the R&D sharing in 2022 gave me the confidence to take on directing more seriously. The gift of being a Ghanaian was even more reason to pursue this project. So, I guess in a way, this project chose me.

Croydonist: What’s been the most joyful part of directing DRUM?

Sarah: Watching the wonder of audience members discovering that these characters are real people. It’s exciting to see people leave discussing themes of the play.

Croydonist: And what’s been the most challenging part?

Sarah: Wearing a different hat as a director at times can be tricky. An unmeasured level of empathy can blind one from giving what is needed in the moment.

Croydonist: You’re on tour with the play for the whole of October – what are you most looking forward to about the run?

Sarah: Simply the connections people will make to these characters. It’s a light and joyful play, with ideas and timeless themes that echo through every human – the feeling of belonging.

Croydonist: How would you sum up DRUM for our readers who are thinking of getting a ticket?

Sarah: A joyful and heartwarming journey through the eyes of two Ghanaians; with highlife, dance and great storytelling.