Actor Paterson Joseph was brought up believing that British (and London) black history began in the 20th century, but when he realised this wasn’t true he set about writing about a historical black British figure, and Charles Ignatius Sancho is the one he chose. He tells his story as a monologue, but also appears as himself, to tell us why and how.
Sancho came to Britain as an orphan child and a slave, working at first for three maiden sisters in Greenwich before being taken in by the Duke of Montagu. He was treated as their bit of ‘exotica’ and encouraged to read, moving on to both write and compose. His portrait was painted by Thomas Gainsborough and he eventually became a free man, grocer, father and, as a property owner, the first black man to vote.
Joseph starts as himself before becoming Sancho, as he sits for Gainsborough. He breaks the fourth wall on other occasions and by doing so creates an extraordinary engagement with his audience, and empathy both for his subject and himself. His performance and personality are animated, with a beaming smile and much eye contact with us. Not only is it a fascinating story, but it’s a completely engaging experience which fits Wilton’s period setting like a glove.
Great storytelling and an afternoon of great warmth in a diverse audience who rose to their feet in tribute to both the storyteller and his subject.
Gareth's Culture and Travel Blog 
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