Paul Robeson written by Phillip Hayes Dean

A powerful chronicle of the life of Paul Robeson, taking us from his childhood in New Jersey to his adult life around the world.

An All-American athlete and a lawyer with Columbia Law School credentials, Robeson faces the racism prevalent in society in early part of the twentieth century. He strives to rise above, and it is his triumph in that struggle that turns Robeson into a modern day hero. Realizing the racist system would not allow him to practice as a lawyer, Robeson turns to singing, something he had learned well in the church choir. His singing leads to acting and his acting, with all the accolades due a master, leads him around the world. But every place he visits he sees the strains of racism in its many forms. The more he sees, the more he speaks out, using the his influence and stature to try and enlighten those around him.

After some time in Europe, he returns to the United States to perform and speak out about the injustices in the country he loves. Confronting racism again, he sticks to his values, adhering to no party line, but is accused of being a Communist, an agitator and much more. He is blacklisted and his passport is revoked, but he goes on speaking out whenever he can.

(PHOTO: Robeson leading Moore Shipyard (Oakland, California) workers in singing the "Star Spangled Banner", September 1942)

Sponsored by:

METRO

Ronni Lacroute

Host or Publisher PassinArt: A Theatre Company