We are thrilled to announce the return of one of the most talked-about productions of 2023, Tambo & Bones, back at Stratford East with a new lead. We are excited to welcome back the incredible Daniel Ward as Bones with Clifford Samuel joining as our new Tambo. This exhilarating, funny, and provocative satire dives deep into the heart of America’s racial history and future, challenging everything we think we know about identity, comedy, and the price of freedom. 

Tambo and Bones are trapped in a minstrel show. But what happens when the show is no longer just a performance, and the stakes are life and death? Tambo and Bones have an escape plan: get out, get rich, and get even. 

The show follows these two characters, who start as a comedy double-act but evolve into hip-hop superstars and activists, navigating a future America consumed by the dangerous repercussions of racial division. Spanning 500 years of history, Tambo & Bones not only critiques the past but blows the roof off the present while imagining an explosive future for both our world and the very essence of theatre itself. 

Clifford Samuel is a celebrated actor known for his diverse body of work across both stage and screen. From 2:22 in the West End to The Lightning Child at Shakespeare’s Globe, Clifford's presence on stage is nothing short of commanding. He has a rich history of collaborations, including with the National Theatre and the Young Vic, and his screen credits include McMafia and Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll. 

Clifford said “Stepping into the role of Tambo is both a thrilling challenge and a privilege. Collaborating with such an extraordinary team fuels my passion for the craft. I’m eager to witness how audiences engage with the story and the production we’ve brought to life.” 

Daniel Ward is a versatile actor and writer, whose recent theatre work includes Cat on A Hot Tin Roof at the Royal Exchange Theatre and Rebellion with the RSC. As the writer and star of The Canary And The Crow, Daniel made waves with his storytelling, which led to critical acclaim and a UK tour. His work continues to push boundaries, and his return to TAMBO & BONES is particularly special. Daniel said “The transitory nature of theatre means we do our best as artists to create moments that resonate with people and live long in their memories. But with T&B, people have never stopped asking me about it. They have passionately told me how the show moved them. What is special about returning is honouring those experiences and creating new ones with new audiences that hopefully last a lifetime.” 

★★★★ “Unique, challenging and oh-so necessary” — The Guardian 

★★★★ “Clever, prickly, elaborate, challenging and delivered with great skill” — Financial Times 

★★★★ “Like nothing you’ve ever seen” — The Telegraph 

Tickets for TAMBO & BONES are available now and can be purchased online or via our box office.