Paul Robeson was a famous actor, singer and civil rights campaigner. Over the years he got progressively too radical and outspoken for the establishment’s liking, he was branded a traitor to his country, harassed, and denied opportunities to perform or travel.

Just as physical, emotional and mental stress threatened to push him over the fine line between genius and madness, he was summoned to appear before the House Un-American Activities Committee, to give the most difficult and important performance of his career.

This journey through Robeson’s remarkable 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.

This show features much fiery oratory and some of his famous songs, including a dramatic rendition of Ol’ Man River.

Venue: Nottingham Contemporary, Weekday Cross

Tickets: £10/£8.00 from Five Leaves Bookshop