A daring and unapologetic examination
of religion, pop culture and
Black representation.
Who would you rather pray to?
Beyoncé or white Jesus?
Jamal grew up Catholic in a Caribbean household, but would rather light a candle and worship celebrities than white saints. Combining African diasporic ritual, music and storytelling, Idol is a spiritual journey that asks what happens when you don't see yourself represented - featuring a host of celebrity appearances.
A Jamal Gerald, Transform and
Theatre in the Mill Co-Production.
Seed commissioned by hÅb, STUN and Contact for Works Ahead. Supported by Leeds Inspired, part of Leeds City Council, and using public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
Lead Artist - Jamal Gerald
Musician/Performer - Pariss Elektra
Musician/Performer - Azizi Cole
Dramaturge - Maddy Costa
Outside Eye - Rachael Young
Movement Director - Akeim Toussaint Buck
Stage and Lighting Design - Ben Pacey
Costume - Hannah Wilson
Ritual Consultant - Christella Litras
Stage Manager - Charlotte Woods
Production Manager - Helen Mugridge
Producer - Transform
Buy the playtext from Bloomsbury HERE
This is performance at its greatest
Culture Vulture
The ceremony and celebration of Idol is a balm for the troubled soul of the Millennial diaspora
★★★★ The LGBTQ Arts Review
Idol is pain and joy so beautifully delivered. Speaks so clearly of the importance of representation
Audience Response