The Black Theatre Co-operative (now Nitro) was co-founded in 1979 by Trinidadian playwright Mustapha Matura, and British director Charlie Hanson. Frustrated by the lack of of interest from London Fringe theatres in Matura's new play Welcome Home Jacko, Matura and Hanson set up their own theatre company. Welcome Home Jacko was presented at the 'Factory' in Paddington, west London, in May 1979 and marked the beginnings of the Black Theatre Co-operative. The company supported, commissioned and produced work by black writers in Britain.