Event

Call Mr Robeson

Paul Robeson is a great and famous actor, singer and civil rights campaigner. When over the years he gets progressively too radical and outspoken for the establishment's liking, he is branded a traitor to his country, harassed, and denied opportunities to perform or travel.

Just as physical, emotional and mental stress threaten to push him over the fine line between genius and madness, he is summoned to appear before the House Un-American Activities Committee. A mysterious African spirit woman appears to help him through the most difficult and important performance of his career.

The play is a roller coaster journey through Robesons remarkable and eventful life, and highlights how his radical activism caused him to be disowned and disremembered, even by the leaders and descendants of the civil rights movement. It features some of his famous songs and speeches, including a dramatic rendition of Ol Man River.

Winner, Angel Award for Aristic Excellence
Winner, Best Male Performer
Nominee, Best Show
Brighton Festival Fringe, UK, May 2008