Our Team
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Brianna O'Reilly (she/her)
I am the founder of TBP, starting it in 2020 to celebrate and amplify life, arts, culture and knowledge from underheard and underserved communities.
My background is Irish/Nigerian, and I can’t prove it but I reckon that’s why my favourite colours are green and orange. I lead the team, and write across all our areas of focus, but my heart is perhaps star-crosssed as it lies in entertainment and politics.
Favourite shows: Bonnie & Clyde, Hadestown, Present Laughter.
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Scarlett Brade (she/her)
Scarlett Brade is the daughter of parents who migrated from the Caribbean to England in the early 1970s. She was born and educated in London, and is a keen theatre, music and Arsenal FC fan. As a child she spent her summers in Toronto, Canada which is where she developed her love affair with reading. She read her first Harry Potter book at the age of six and completed her own full-length novel by the age of twenty three. When not writing, Scarlett spends most of her time cooking, drinking fine wines, and entertaining family and friends. Zaffre published her debut dark psychological thriller, THE HIVE, about a chilling murder live-streamed on Instagram, in July 2022.
Favourite Shows include: Moulin Rouge, Hamilton, Macbeth
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Deborah Olaifa (she/her)
Deborah is a seasoned professional with over 6 years of experience in the entertainment industry, where she has worn multiple hats, including artist manager, singer/songwriter, publicist, and A&R scout. Her deep passion for theatre and her unwavering love for writing have made her an invaluable theatre reviewer at The Black Project.
Favourite show: Hamilton
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Sabrei Ackah (she/her)
My name is Sabrei, I’m 26, a proud Gemini with an ‘Advocate/INFJ’ personality type. I’ve had my locs for 15 years and have Ghanaian, Jamaican, British, Antiguan and Montserration heritage.
I’m obsessed with all things related to the creative industries and I’m grateful to live in a country with a thriving creative scene.
I love to travel and reap all the benefits that come along with it. I’m longing to see more of the world.
One of my favourite shows is ‘For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy.’ It was so brilliantly executed and thought provoking and a much needed story to be told. This was also the first show I’ve been to where I was able to buy the script.
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Oviya Thirumalai (she/her)
I'm South Indian (Tamil), and have lived both in India and England, giving me the best of both worlds. I've always loved writing, and have recently started performing stand up comedy and spoken word. I absolutely adore theatre, and love being able to watch a variety and review them! I love getting lost in theatre as it's both so entertaining and educational. I'm also a theatre photographer.
I'm currently studying my MA "Writing for Stage and Broadcast Media" at Royal Central School of Speech and Drama.
Favourite Show: Newsies and Death Note: The Musical.
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Tamar Francis (she/her)
Hey Y'all I'm Kush...
I'm Birmingham based but have roots all over the world. I've always had an interest in storytelling through various forms, ( which was the catalyst behind me completing my TV and Broadcasting MA), but theatre productions are my absolute fav!
I've preformed in various productions over the years, most recently as a co narrator in Rush Theatre Production's ' The King of Reggae'. I tend to involve myself in productions that offer alternative and creative expressions of Black excellence.
If I had to choose a favourite show it would have to be ' Black Hero's in the Hall of Fame'. It was the late 80's, I was 7 or 8 years old and it was my first time ever going to the theater. Even today in my 40s i still remember how in 'awe' I was of all the characters and the pride I felt as I was transported into a magical world of Black excellence!
I smile as I reflect. I've been chasing that feeling ever since. The mission continues...
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Darryl Yankah (He/Him)
Hi my name is Darryl and I'm a British Ghanaian with a deep admiration for story-telling.
I've been blessed with years of experience in filmmaking and scriptwriting and probably/happily will end up having more as it's the only thing I truly enjoy to be frank.
Furthermore, I'm currently studying and MArts in, Film with Innovation at the University of Bristol.
Favourite Show: Tina Turner
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Linzi Allan (she/her)
I grew up in Scotland and graduated with an MA in Politics and International Relations and an MSc in Strategic Studies and International Law from the University of Aberdeen. Shortly after completing my studies I moved to Brussels where I spent four years working at the European Parliament and NATO. I moved to London in 2018 and since then have worked at a think tank, charity, in higher Education and have recently joined a FinTech company working as an Executive Officer.
Film and theatre have long been a passion of mine. Theatre, to me, is more than just a form of entertainment; it's a transformative experience. In my reviews, I aim to capture the magic that happens on stage, offering both constructive feedback and heartfelt praise to artists who pour their souls into their craft.
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Fisola Kelly-Akinnuoye (she/her)
I am an English Literature graduate and creative. I write across various mediums including prose, poetry and theatre. In the past year I have also been building my skills as a producer.
I enjoy new writing. My favourite show (at the moment, because it is always changing) is Sleepova that was on at the Bush Theatre. It was a relatable performance that centred black girlhood, sisterhood and the difficulties and joys of growing up.
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Lauren Ali-Williams (she/her)
Hi! I’m Lauren, a 24 year old Londoner who works in TV production.
I’m really passionate about theatre, and having gone with my family from a very young age, I’ve seen about every genre possible!
My favourite play to date though has been blues from an Alabama sky- I saw it last winter and I went through absolutely all of the emotions; a definite 100/10.