Born in New Jersey to a father who was a freed slave, Robeson (1898—1976) rose from humble beginnings to become a Broadway star and international celebrity. Best known for playing “Joe” in the ground-breaking musical Show Boat (making “Ol’ Man River” one of the most celebrated show-tunes), he was also a scholar, athlete, activist, attorney, and an icon of the civil rights movement, whose career crumbled during the McCarthy era as questions arose about his Communist associations.
Employing Beaty’s swift vocal and character transformations, monologues, narrative scenes, music, poetry, and video, the production explores the evolution of Robeson’s career. It shows his humanity and courage, but does not shy away from his complicated character, including his marital infidelity and the controversy surrounding Show Boat.