Anyone who recognizes the name of Paul Robeson probably associates it with the song ‘Old Man River’, but Robeson the man was far, far more than just a singer.
The Cowichan Performing Arts Centre is presenting Call Mr. Robeson Friday, May 13, starting at 7:30 p.m.
An award-winning one-man show by Tayo Aluko, this event follows the bumpy road of Robeson’s life, and while it includes some of his famous songs, that is certainly not all.
Robeson was an All-American football player and Columbia Law School graduate who became a Broadway actor and then a fiery speaker and activist for civil rights.
His high profile meant he frequently found himself in trouble, especially in the ultra-conservative political climate in the U.S. after the Second World War and Robeson found himself blacklisted and refused a passport to travel.
Tickets are $30 for adults, $28 for seniors, $25 for students. Partial proceeds will go to the Cowichan Valley Hospice Society.
