James R | On 15, Jul 2020

Michaela Coel and Cynthia Erivo will headline the BBC’s Creative Diversity Xperience, a new two-day online event.

Taking place on 28th and 29th July, the virtual showcase will celebrate the “vibrancy, innovation and leadership of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic talent in the creative industry”. A public event aimed at younger audiences, it will examine issues of relevance to them over six hours of live-streamed events and masterclasses each day.

CDX will bring together iconic stars, cultural disruptors and influencers. Viewers will hear from diverse leaders across the creative world including 1Xtra’s DJ Target; Noughts And Crosses star Masali Baduza; Normal People and Derry Girls actor Aoife Hinds; creative director and manager Grace Ladoja; writer and filmmaker Lucy Sheen. Cynthia Erivo will sit down with Radio 1’s Clara Amfo for a one-on-one spotlight conversation and BBC’s I May Destroy You Writer and star Michaela Coel will host a masterclass.

Other key sessions expected include: a music masterclass with a special line up of UK artists; Diversity for Every ‘body’; Cancel Culture, hosted by Linkup TV; and Beyond Yellow Face Casting, covering topics including cultural appropriation, the power of social media and why Asian creatives are forgotten in the film industry.

June Sarpong, BBC Director of Creative Diversity, says: “It is important for the BBC to be the beacon to the rest of the industry and champion Diversity and Inclusion. We have thought carefully about creating an authentic, engaging and immersive experience, using innovative technology. CDX will set itself apart from what people may have seen or expect of the BBC.”

Miranda Wayland, BBC’s Head of Creative Diversity, says: “CDX is a first for the BBC and the wider creative industry and I am excited about this opportunity to amplify the wealth of ethnically diverse talent within the creative industry. I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved and the diverse team who have shaped CDX to be the voice for our young diverse audiences.”

Faron McKenzie, Marketing Manager for Radio 1 and 1Xtra & Head of CDX, says: “It’s been an honour to lead on an exciting production like CDX. I’m proud that our team of creators looked like and shared a similar lived experience to our audience. It is important for the BBC to champion Diversity and Inclusion and not be afraid to lean into these subject matters.”

The even will take place on a new interactive platform, Reactoo, hosted on the BBC’s Creative Diversity website. This will allow audiences to host their own virtual rooms remotely, where they can watch CDX live together with friends.

A full list of headliners and programme of live sessions will be announced soon.

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