Thinking Allowed

Original version

BBC Radio 4 FM

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

BBC Radio 4

Radio 4

Radio 4 (FM)

Discussion & Talk

Factual: Science & Nature

BBC Radio 4 LW

Thinking Allowed: Blackface - Minstrelsy

Blackface - Minstrelsy

BBC Radio 4 - Thinking Allowed, Blackface - Minstrelsy

Blackface and minstrelsy - a troubled history.

Blackface and minstrelsy - Laurie Taylor explores a troubled history.

BLACKFACE & MINSTRELSY - At its most basic level, 'blackface' is the application of any prosthetic to imitate the complexion of another race.  In theory, it's a performance available to all, yet 'whiteface' is relatively unknown.  Laurie Taylor talks to  Ayanna Thompson, Regents Professor of English at Arizona State University, about the painful history of ‘blackface’, an ancient European theatrical device that the Europeans brought with them to America. What connects it to Blackface minstrelsy, a specific comedic performance tradition rooted in slavery,  and why does this racist practice endure today?

Also, Christine Grandy,  Associate Professor in History  at the University of Lincoln, discusses the origins of the British Black and White Minstrel Show, a prime time, BBC variety programme which lasted for 20 years, from 1958-1978. She uncovers a little known history in which broadcasters, the press, and audience members collectively argued that the show had nothing to do with race  whilst the complaints and anger of Black people were dismissed. Thinking Allowed is produced in partnership with the Open University.

Producer:  Jayne Egerton

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Thinking Allowed

Blackface - Minstrelsy

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 4 FM

About BBC Radio 4