Tambo and Bones are stuck in a minstrel show.
It’s hard to know what’s real when you’re stuck in a minstrel show.
Their escape plan: get out, get rich, get even.
One of the most talked-about cultural events of 2023, Tambo & Bones is an exhilarating, darkly comic and provocative satire on capitalism and Black performance, that explores the commodification of the Black experience through the mediums of minstrelsy, hip-hop and afro-futurism. Spanning 500 years, Tambo and Bones journey from comedy double-act, to hip-hop superstars to activists in a future America, contending with the alarming repercussions of a nation torn apart by race. Harris’ blistering play laughs through our past, blows the roof off our present and imagines an explosive future for our world and for theatre.

Clifford Samuel (2:22 A Ghost Story, McMafia) will play the role of Tambo and Daniel Ward (Cat on A Hot Tin Roof, Rebellion) will reprise his role as Bones.
Tour opens at Northampton Friday March 7 and runs until 16, before heading out on tour.
In this exhilarating, funny and provocative satire, Tambo and Bones journey from comedy double-act, to hip-hop superstars, to activists in a future America, contending with the alarming repercussions of a nation torn apart by race.
Spanning 500 years of history, Tambo & Bones laughs through our past, blows the roof off our present and imagines an explosive future for our world and for theatre.
Tambo & Bones was one of the most talked about cultural events of 2023 when it received its UK premiere at Stratford East. Directed by Matthew Xia, this Made In Northampton co-production opens in Northampton before embarking on its first ever UK tour.
Tambo & Bones takes to the Royal stage in Northampton from Friday 7 to Saturday 15 March. Tickets are priced from £15* and full details of performances times can be found on the theatre’s website www.royalandderngate.co.uk/tambo-and-bones. Tickets can be booked online or by calling Box Office on 01604 624811.
Join the Conversation – Post-Show Discussion with the cast and associate director.
Wednesday 12 March
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to engage directly with the creative team behind Tambo & Bones! Join Director Matthew Xia, Associate Director Dubheasa Lanipekun, Jesse Jones, Artistic Director of Royal & Derngate, and some of the cast for a thought-provoking discussion about the show, its themes, and the bold, satirical exploration of race, identity, and revolution.
Ask your questions, share your thoughts, and dive deeper into the conversation.
This post-show event is free for ticket holders of the evening performance on Wed 12 March. Spaces are limited, so book your tickets now to secure your spot!
AN ACTORS TOURING COMPANY, STRATFORD EAST AND ROYAL & DERNGATE, NORTHAMPTON CO-PRODUCTION IN ASSOCIATION WITH BELGRADE THEATRE, LEEDS PLAYHOUSE AND LIVERPOOL EVERYMAN.


