East London’s Rich Mix will host the Afro Futures Festival, the latest edition of Certain Blacks’ annual indoor event, in the context of recent political unrest. The program reflects on how diverse cultures have contributed to British identity and what it means to be British today. It features dance, theatre, cabaret, music, and spoken word performances.

On 7 March cabaret will showcase a collaboration between The Brownie Club and The Cocoa Butter Club (QX Cabaret Award Winners), highlighting Black and Brown talent. Together, they aim to entertain, inform, and showcase their impressive rosters of artists in a late-night celebration of Performers Of Colour. The Brownie Club is known for challenging stereotypes surrounding Brown bodies through drag, dance, circus, and sultry performances. The Cocoa Butter Club empowers with their signature styles of burlesque, spoken word, fire-breathing, and voguing.

“This festival is hugely important for Black and POC artists at a time where politically the world seems to be getting more hostile. Places like this are essential to be able to create work that speaks to world issues but also to very local feelings of Anxiety’s around safety, break down of community and lack of visibility and support. The Cocoa Butter Club use this festival to explore the themes surrounding Black experiences and to encourage conversation and joy.”
Cassie Leon, producer of The Cocoa Butter Club

The Brownie Club meets The Cocoa Butter Club at Afro Futures Festival, 7 March 2025 — The Brownie Club Cabaret (photo by Alex Brenner)

“Afro Future Festival is more than just an event—it’s a space where Black creativity, culture, and imagination take centre stage. The Brownie Club is all about amplifying underrepresented voices, and this festival is a vital platform for that mission. Diversity and visibility aren’t just buzzwords; they are the foundation of innovation, storytelling, and community. We’re here to celebrate the past, reimagine the future, and carve out spaces where all of us can thrive.”
Jessica Andrade from The Brownie Club

Part of the evening will be hosted by Bolly-Illusion, an award-winning performer and Bollywood dancer, representing The Brownie Club. Sadie Sinner the Songbird will take on hosting duties for The Cocoa Butter Club. The event will feature two 60-minute shows, complete with an interval and DJ sets.

Tickets price £12

Buy your tickets here

The Brownie Club meets The Cocoa Butter Club at Afro Futures Festival, on 7 March 2025 from 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm, at Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Rd, London E1 6LA, United Kingdom.

More events at Afro Futures Festival

This year’s Afro Futures Festival showcases a variety of performances, including dance, theatre, cabaret, music, and spoken word. It features work that has been developed in response to a changing cultural climate, reflecting how diverse cultures have influenced British identity.

The festival celebrates an exciting lineup of artists from varied backgrounds and disciplines.

Music by Sean Khan & The Modern Jazz and Folk Ensemble will kick off the festival on Thursday, 6 March, blending traditional and modern folk with a vibrant Jazz twist. Paying tribute to the 1970s folk revival, the ensemble features saxophonist Sean Khan alongside singer Jacqui McShee from Pentangle and singer/guitarist Rosie Frater-Taylor. Their critically acclaimed album on Acid Jazz Records and sold-out show at Ronnie Scott’s highlight their mix of tradition and innovation.

Best Friends by Crying in the Wilderness Productions is a poignant blend of humor and sensitivity that explores friendship and assisted death. Set for Saturday, March 8 at 7:30 PM, the story follows two friends in their final 24 hours together, revealing deep-seated truths that challenge their bond. The experience features a talented cast from the US and UK and combines staged reading with live performance.

On Saturday 8 March at 4pm, spoken word artist Oneness Sankara presents T21 ALCHEMY, a work-in-progress that blends poetry, prose, and music. This semi-autobiographical piece explores the journey of a British woman of African Caribbean heritage who becomes a mother later in life to a child with Down Syndrome, addressing themes of motherhood, disability stigma, and resilience.

The festival wraps up on Sunday, March 9, with Roshni by the Sonia Sabri Company. This performance combines Kathak dance and live music, inspired by the stories of everyday people. It offers an emotional journey through wordless storytelling, beatboxing, and lively audience interaction.