As a formal inauguration of a custom-made Steinway Concert Grand piano for the University of Southern Indiana’s Performance Center, the University will host a production of the world famous Black Repertory Theatre of Saint Louis and present two free performances of Phillip Hayes Dean’s one-man show, Robeson. The play is based on the life of Paul Robeson, the larger than life social activist whose powerful operatic voice established him as one of the 20th century’s most influential African-American celebrities. The production will be presented at 7:30 p.m. September 22 and 23 in the Performance Center, located off University Boulevard adjacent to University Center East.
Starring opera singer and actor Robert McNichols, Robeson is directed by Ron Himes, producing director and founder of The Black Reperatory Theatre. Himes has produced and directed more than 200 plays at the theatre, which is known for its quality productions from an African-American perspective.
McNichols is a recent graduate of the University of Kansas School of Music with a doctorate in musical arts. His recent performances include a solo recital at the Eutin Castle in Germany, Porgy and Bess with Lyric Opera Chicago, La Traviata with Lyric Opera Kansas City, among others. Accompanying McNichols on piano will be Charles Creath, an award-winning keyboardist and musical director. He currently serves as the artistic director of The Gospel People in Filderstadt, Germany.
These free and open to the public performances are being underwritten with private gifts from generous donors to the USI Foundation. A full schedule of productions can be found atUSI.edu/Theatre.
