Call Mr Robeson. A Life, With Songs

Saturday 17th October 2015

“They say I’m meddling in 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.
This roller-coaster journey through Robeson’s remarkable and eventful life highlights how his pioneering and heroic (but largely forgotten) political activism led many to describe him as the forerunner of the civil rights movement. It features much fiery oratory and some of his famous songs, including a dramatic rendition of Ol’ Man River.
Tayo Aluko revives one of the 20th Century’s most impressive but overlooked figures in this powerful, compelling tour-de-force performance, which was seen at New York’s Carnegie Hall in February 2012, and in London’s West End in October 2013.

More Events in Greater London Listings MORE

Camden Friday 27 June

Jeru the Damaja

Prepare for a truly unforgettable night as one of Brooklyn’s most revered lyrical legends graces our stage. Jeru…

Lambeth Tuesday 17 June

Kara Jackson

The singer wields her voice like a honey-coated blade, crafting a blend of emotional folk music and poetic…

Lambeth Wednesday 18 June

Ghetts

Hear the east London artist’s signature combination of razor-sharp, crystal-clear rhymes with smart humour and creative, intelligent wordplay….

Lambeth Thursday 19 June

Nubya Garcia

The London-born saxophonist, composer and bandleader melds jazz, classical, dub and R&B into sweeping, adventurous music to stir…

Lambeth Friday 20 June

Mix & Move: Hip-Hop Grooves

Showcasing dance styles and dancers from across the globe, Mix & Move is our monthly programme of accessible dance workshops…

Lambeth Friday 20 June

MEGA+ Jon Poppii

With a big voice, big heart and big songs that explore vulnerability, self-realisation and empowerment, the vocalist and…

Lambeth Saturday 21 June

Jon Batiste

Be immersed in music from the legendary singer, songwriter and composer, whose piano-playing melds the blues with classical…