Brief history

Asante started in 1986 with an art exhibition. The group later included poets as part of each exhibition. The group organised successful trips to theatres, black comedy shows in London and other cities. Local citizens were able to see up and coming black comedians, such as Gina Yashere, Richard Blackwood, and others at the start of their career.

Partnership with the Bowen West theatre in Bedford, resulted in bringing black plays to Bedford for the first time. That tradition continues today by the town’s main theatre venue. Asante held a day of Cultural activities and events, annually, which included local artistes, groups and entrepreneurs from many of the different communities in Bedford, outside of the Caribbean community.

Asante produced a local black businesses calendar as well as a magazine called “Dis & Dat, Xclusive” which was very popular within the local community.

For more information on the group