January 30, 2009

One-Man Show at CBU Portrays Life of Paul Robeson

Memphis -- The Student Government Association and the Black Student Association at Christian Brothers University (CBU) will present actor and comedian Stogie Kenyatta in a performance of his acclaimed Broadway-style one-man show, The World is My Home - The Life & Times of Paul Robeson, on February 6 at 7:30 p.m. in the University Theater.

Paul Robeson (1898-1976) was an African-American film and stage actor, professional athlete, writer, lawyer, concert singer, civil rights forerunner, and union activist who achieved worldwide recognition during his life for his singing, films and outspoken beliefs which largely clashed with the climate of pre-civil rights America. Robeson was the first major concert star to popularize the performance of Negro spirituals and was the first black actor to portray Shakespeare's Othello.

Stogie Kenyatta brings a unique interpretation to the stage, where he majestically captures the essence of Paul Robeson. Portraying ten characters, he chronologically takes the audience through the life of history's first black renaissance man and one of America's most complex, brilliant citizens.

The show covers the Harlem Renaissance, with music from Duke Ellington, John Coltrane, Johnny Hartman, Fats Waller, Cab Calloway and Robeson himself. Kenyatta uses his stand-up comedy skills,laughter, satire, singing and brilliant storytelling to introduce us to the scholar, actor, singer, athlete, and activist that was Robeson. Kenyatta's portrayal reveals the sense of humor, charm, wit, romantic passion, and human frailties of a life filled with triumphant achievement & the tragedy of hopes unfullfilled.

The World is My Home - The Life & Times of Paul Robeson is open to the public and will be presented free of charge. The show is currently touring colleges, churches, art festivals, and special corporate events. For more information, visit www.stogiekenyatta.com.