Written and Performed by Tayo Aluko
Call Mr. Robeson - A life, with songs.
With Michael Conliffe, Piano
Directed by Olusola Oyeleye; Designed by Phil Newman
“They say I’m meddling in the foreign affairs of the foreign affairs of the United States Government. Now, that’s too bad, ‘cause I’m going to have to continue to meddle...”
Paul Robeson is a world 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, to give the most difficult and important performance of his career.
The play is a roller coaster journey through Robeson’s 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.
Tayo Aluko, who has sung as baritone soloist with the Hallé Orchestra, brings one of the 20th Century’s most impressive but overlooked figures back to life in this powerful, compelling tour-de-force performance.
PRESS QUOTES
"A stunning piece of musical theatre.... high quality drama, first class singing"
Fringe Review, Edinburgh Fringe, 2010
"Excellent ... convincing ... gripping ... inspiring production. " Broadway Baby
"Never less than utterly believable" British Theatre Guide
"Simply-told but immensely powerful" The Scotsman
“A thrilling, moving and marvellously entertaining musical drama. Totally soulful and convincing"
Latest 7 Magazine
“A must-see experience, a treasure of a show. TOP PICK!” DC Theater Scene
January 4-23 (not 10,17,24) 7.30 pm (Tues-Sat) 3.00 pm (Thurs, Sat, Sun)
£10/£8 (2 for 1 on 4 -6 and 11 and 18)