David, Polly and the Banned

Tonight saw the staging of a concert to celebrate ten years of the Belarus Free Theatre, an artistic voice in a world where free speech and art is being suppressed: ‘I’m With The Banned’. Performing at London’s Koko were a selection of artists whose stance has brought them to the attention of the authorities, including Brutto, Boombox, and Nadya Tolokonnikova of Pussy Riot.

The show, which was streamed live by BBC Arts, also included cameo appearances by actors Jeremy Irons, Juliet Stevenson and Kim Cattrall, as well as comedian Miles Jupp.

David appeared with a bespoke lineup of musicians, including four members of Boombox, Jon Carin, Bryan Chambers and, on Rattle That Lock, an all-star backing choir of Polly Samson, family and friends. Other songs performed were Astronomy Domine, In Any Tongue, and a heartfelt Wish You Were Here, with Rattle That Lock as the triumphant closer.

For more information on Belarus Free Theatre, click here.