On Monday 14th July, Somerset House’s iconic courtyard hosted the world premier of rituals: union black, a new film by Sundance award-winning and BAFTA-nominated filmmaker and Somerset House Studios resident Akinola Davies Jr..

The film, commissioned as part of Somerset House’s 25th birthday, captures everyday moments of community, care, worship and celebration. Filmed across the UK, it forms an intimate and evolving archive of Black life. Shot across the UK, the film captures both quiet gestures and collective moments. It honours the textures of daily life and the power of community.

The open-air screening featured a one-night-only live score performed by an ensemble of Black British musical innovators: Sampha, Moses Boyd, the drums of Balimaya Project, Kwake Bass, Dennis Bovell, Charlie Dark and Klein. Together, they brought Davies Jr.’s poetic exploration of Black British rituals to life.

This year’s Somerset House Summer Series with American Express featured a stacked lineup including: Freya Ridings, Joy Oladokun, St. Vincent, Giggs and more.

More at somersethouse.org.uk.