A BLACK History Month themed play will be touring the UK, with a Newport performance that will raise funds for Newport City Radio and SEWREC.

Newport City Radio (NCR) is a volunteer-based online radio station, housed in St David's House, which also houses social justice charity for South East Wales, SEWREC.

NCR are celebrating their tenth birthday, and recently won a 'community hero' award for their voluntary work, at the V Awards.

Cardiff based company, Fio, which is known for 'tearing down stereotypes and challenging injustice' are bringing their production The Island to Pill Millennium Centre on October 23, with money raised helping these organisations.

This follows the production's debut, in Powys Dance, on October 20.

NCR manager, Ian Lamsdale, explained: "As we celebrate our tenth year, NCR is proud to be involved in this production.

"We take for granted how easy it has been for us to have representation from people with different beliefs, culture and backgrounds.

"The Island is a fantastic way to celebrate Black History and to remind ourselves there is more to be done to reach full equality."

This production is part of the Noson Allan – Night Out Project, and will transport the audience to the cells of a prison on Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated.

Volunteer-based The Island is in conjunction with Mandela's Centenary year, and aims to promote individuality and celebrate human rights.

Local artist J.O.R.J, part of the Newport Promoter team as lead designer with the Night Out Project, has created artwork for the audience to interact with and help create on the night.

Fio community engagement officer and Night Out Project facilitator, Naz Syed, said: “Newport is my hometown and I am passionate about bringing different performances to the community.

"I am over the moon to be welcoming the tour to a vibrant community in Pill to share their performance and stories with.

"I have been working with SEWREC and Newport City Radio, where the community have come together to promote The Island and build skills in social media, scheduling, event managing, marketing, art and more.

"The Island is a thoughtful and powerful story, bringing different emotions and stories to the surface."

The production is kindly supported by the Night Out Project, Noson Allan, Fusion, Resilient Communities, Newport City Council, Arts Council of Wales and Creu Cymru.

Doors will open, on October 23, at 6.30pm, with stalls and activities prior to the hour-long performance, which starts at 7.30pm, with an optional Q&A afterwards.

As there is limited seating it’s recommended to book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets are £5 each, which includes food on the night.

They can be bought by visiting SEWREC and Newport City Radio at 137 Commercial Street (NP20 1LN).

Alternatively, you can book tickets on Eventbrite, or call: 01633 250006, or email: naz@wearefio.co.uk

The production will tour following the Newport performance. For the full list of tour dates go to: www.wearefio.co.uk/tickets