Soweto Kinch leads new BBC radio drama series Jesus Piece

The drama is written by Sarah Chukwudebe and based on an original idea by BAFTA winner Professor Robert Beckford (BBC One’s Battle For Christianity) who supported the production. It will transmit over four weeks from Sunday 28 May. All of the acting talent has been cast from the West Midlands.

The gripping story is set in Birmingham and centres around Toussaint - a reformed gang member who finds God and becomes a Pastor.

The 4x15’ minute serial drama has been produced from BBC Birmingham’s iconic radio drama studios where The Archers on BBC Radio 4 is recorded. A far cry from Ambridge, the drama is set on the streets of Birmingham where life is tough, but community bonds are tougher.

After being appointed Pastor in a broken community Touissant - known as Pastor T - quickly builds bridges and makes a difference, especially amongst young, black worshippers. But because of his past, the established church elders don’t approve. When he is accused of murder a gripping tale unfolds leaving listeners hooked right the way through to the last installment.

Soweto Kinch is an award-winning alto-saxophonist and rapper who also has a degree in Modern History from Oxford University. He says: “It’s great to be part of such an original idea and to play a character who is so layered. Pastor T’s heart for his community really resonates, and I think the story will touch people inside and outside of the church.”

Writer and director, Sarah Chukwudebe says: "It's a privilege to give voice to a character and a community rarely afforded the opportunity to step out of the shadows, to speak and to shine. Faith, hope and love (above all, love) are what make Toussaint and his friends so refreshing in our cynical, postmodern age, and I suspect that, beyond the specifics of race and culture, many will identify with their courage and integrity in the face of adversity."

David Holdsworth, Controller of BBC English Regions says, “This is an exciting step for BBC English Regions and promises to be a brilliant listen. The writing is fantastic, the tension of the narrative gripping and to have the talent of Soweto leading the drama is really exciting.”

Jesus Piece is a BBC English Regions production made in BBC Birmingham, executive produced by Sheetal Parmar and Jessica Dromgoole (Home Front) and written and directed by Sarah Chukwudebe.

Jesus Piece, BBC Local Radio and BBC iPlayer, premieres Sunday 28 May.

JM5