Episode 2: Lucian Msamati

In this second episode of Through Rose Tinted Specs, Chris has the pleasure of speaking to Lucian Msamati. Originally from Zimbabwe, Lucian has famously performed in Amadeus at the National Theatre, Othello at the RSC and on our screens in Game of Thrones, His Dark Materials and Gangs of London among other programmes. He is a former artistic director of the Tiata Fahodzi theatre company, and is one of the founding members of Zimbabwe’s acclaimed Over the Edge theatre company. 
 
Topics include: how lockdown has impacted Lucian and how he’s staying creative; Talking Heads and contributing to the national cause; the pandemic leading to stripped-back storytelling; how individuals can re-approach creative work and the industry; the role of artists as ‘cultural first responders’ regarding the pandemic, BLM and other fracturing moments we have seen take place this year; the issue of class in the UK; lessons that can be applied in this country that Lucian has taken from his Zimbabwe background; theatres’ responsibility as civic institutions; advice for young artists beginning their careers right now; where Lucian is looking for creative inspiration during this time.

Photo credit - Jon Holloway Photography