David Farnor | On 09, Feb 2021

Monuments, a short film born out of a Donmar Local project, has been launched online by the Donmar Warehouse theatre.

The project explores the legacy of the British Empire. As anti-racism movements sweep the globe, young people are pushing for political action, drawing our attention to the racialised power structures embedded within society. Change is on the horizon.

The Donmar is located on the edge of Westminster, streets away from the historic heart of the British Empire, where statues are, for many people, a reminder of slavery and colonialism. Led by Resident Assistant Director Sara Aniqah Malik, Monumnets explores how the legacy of the Empire continues to impact our community.

Working with Sara, writer Nessah Muthy, director of photography Fẹ́mi Awójídé and movement director Kane Husbands, a diverse company of 12 young Londoners have produced the short film, exploring their own experiences of everyday racism. It combines original text and movement created by the young people in close collaboration with the experienced creative team.

Filming took place in December 2020 with the cast and crew adhering to government guidelines throughout the shoot. The film is available from 11am today until 28th February 2021. An accompany podcast will be released on soundcloud.com/donmarwarehouse on Thursday 11th February. To support the Donmar theatre, text DONMAR 5, DONMAR 10 or DONMAR 20 to 70470 to donate £5, £10 or £20 respectively.

Here’s a trailer:

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