Celebrating Young, Gifted, and Black: An Inspiring Conversation with Playwright Kayla Ayerty

In this week’s episode of Black All Year I was absolutely delighted to interview someone who is a true embodiment of the phrase "young, gifted, and Black." At just 13 years old, Kayla Ayerty has already made remarkable strides in the world of playwriting, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who has the pleasure of hearing her story.

Meet Kayla Ayerty

Kayla Ayerty is an extraordinary young woman from East London, whose love for English, drama, and music has blossomed into a promising career in playwriting. Her passion for storytelling began early, nurtured by a supportive family and a vibrant cultural heritage. From short stories and diary entries to complex plays, Kayla's journey is a testament to the power of creativity and perseverance.

A Family Affair: Inspirations and Beginnings

Kayla’s interest in theatre was sparked by her father, an avid actor who frequently took her to rehearsals and theatres, embedding a love for the stage in her heart. Alongside her grandmother Janice, who has been a significant influence, Kayla found the encouragement to pursue her dreams. Their unwavering support has been pivotal in her development as a young playwright.

The Birth of "Walking Blind"

Kayla's first major project, Walking Blind, began when she was just nine years old. Inspired by a BBC writing competition suggested by her grandmother, Kayla and her father embarked on this creative journey together. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which delayed the production, they persevered. By the age of 11, Kayla had completed the script, and the audition process began.

Walking Blind is a musical that tells the story of a young girl from Ghana who moves to London after the death of her parents. The narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and resilience as the protagonist navigates her new life. Kayla’s personal connection to Ghanaian culture, through her father’s heritage, deeply influenced the story’s authenticity and emotional depth.

Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Dreams

Producing Walking Blind was no small feat. Without initial backing from the BBC, Kayla’s father funded the project himself. Despite the hurdles, Kayla remained actively involved in every aspect, from auditions to rehearsals, even taking on a small acting role. The play’s three-night run was both a monumental achievement and a bittersweet end to a project that had been years in the making.

A New Venture: “War Crown”

Not one to rest on her laurels, Kayla quickly turned her attention to her next project, War Crown. This play focuses on three formidable warrior queens—Yaa Asantewaa, Queen Nanny, and Queen Nandy – who are often overlooked in mainstream historical narratives. Through this play, Kayla aims to highlight the courage and leadership of these powerful women, bringing their stories to a wider audience.

Currently, Kayla is in the process of securing funding for War Crown, having applied to the Arts Council and launched a crowdfunding campaign. The play is scheduled to premiere in October at the Courtyard Theatre in London, coinciding with Black History Month—a fitting tribute to the remarkable figures it celebrates.

The Future is Bright

Looking ahead, Kayla is determined to continue her journey in playwriting, exploring various forms of writing and possibly venturing into novels and poetry. Her dedication and passion are clear, and her future in storytelling shines brightly.

Support Kayla’s Journey

To support Kayla in bringing War Crown to life, you can visit her website at https://www.kaylaayertey.com/ and contribute to her crowdfunding campaign. Your support can help ensure that this young, talented playwright continues to inspire and uplift through her work.

Kayla’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of nurturing young talent and the incredible impact of cultural heritage and family support. As we celebrate her achievements, let’s also look forward to the many more stories she has yet to tell.