New play uncovering the hidden Black history of Syncopated Orchestra coming to Liverpool Playhouse

A new play uncovering the hidden Black history of Syncopated, a pioneering jazz ensemble that brought its radical sound from America to the UK is coming to Liverpool next week.

Syncopated by Varaidzo, opening at the Liverpool Playhouse Studio, will star Joseph Munroe-Robinson and Teddy Oyediran. Directed by Tian Glasgow, opening on Tuesday 23 September to Saturday 4 October 2025.

Set across past and present, Syncopated follows Him and Her as they uncover the hidden Black history of the Southern Syncopated Orchestra.

Taking on the role of Him, a music student from London, is Joseph Munroe-Robinson, whose credits include Return to the Forbidden Planet (Greenwich Theatre), Animal Farm, Much Ado About Nothing and Burying Your Brother in the Pavement at Rose Bruford College.

Starring opposite him as Her, a young Liverpudlian, is Teddy Oyediran, whose recent work includes Slave: A Question of Freedom (Feelgood Theatre Productions), Reckless (Royal Court Liverpool), Lear (HER Productions) and Intimate Apparel at Manchester School of Theatre).

As the pair grow closer, echoes of the past begin to shape their present, guided by two figures from history in a story of connection, legacy and sound.

Written by Varaidzo, whose credits include The Good Immigrant (2016) and Manny and the Baby (shortlisted for the 2025 Jhalak Prize), the play forms part of Talawa’s Black Joy season, a major celebration of Black creativity and storytelling. Co-produced by Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse and one of its associate companies Talawa Theatre Company, Syncopated hums with live music and romantic energy.

Nathan Powell, Creative Director of Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse, said:

 “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Talawa Theatre Company, one of our Associate Companies. Syncopated is an exciting new work that draws on the city’s cultural heritage while offering a fresh perspective on love, music and legacy.”

For tickets and more information, visit the Liverpool Playhouse website.

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