The West Philadelphia Cultural Alliance/Paul Robeson House & Museum (WPCA/PRHM) is hosting a virtual community gathering to celebrate the life of Paul Leroy Robeson, the distinguished African American actor, singer, athlete and activist. The event, which is marking Robeson’s 124th birthday, will highlight the many facets of his life not only as a performer, but also as a pioneer in the arts and entertainment industry.

The event will include a musical tribute featuring performances of Robeson’s classics, including spirituals and music from the Harlem Renaissance, produced by Key Arts Productions. In addition, dramatic renditions will be performed by Theatre in the X, and Paul Robeson High School students will share reflections of the man whose name the school bears.

The Paul Robeson House & Museum

The arts were paramount throughout Robeson’s life, and he felt that it was a great responsibility when given the opportunity to perform, to uplift humanity, through his booming voice.

However, as Janice Sykes-Ross, Executive Director of WPCA/PRHM, remarks, “Paul Robeson was an activist. And it was through him being an activist that he really sacrificed his career. Furthermore, he sacrificed his fame and fortune, not just for African Americans, but for all individuals that fought injustice all over the world.”

This year, for WPCA/PRHM’s annual fundraiser, the goal is to raise $7,000 to support the organization’s Arts in the Parlor program which spotlights local artists. The aim is to provide these artists – both known and unknown singers, dancers, musicians, painters, crafters, or collectors – a venue to hone their craft and showcase their creative talents.

The virtual celebration will begin on Saturday, April 9 at 4:00 p.m., and will be live streamed on YouTube.

Tickets for this free birthday celebration can be reserved on Eventbrite.

The Paul Robeson House & Museum, which is owned by the West Philadelphia Cultural Alliance, is located at 4951 Walnut Street. Robeson lived there during the last 10 years of his life – from 1966 to 1976. The organization hosts tours, cultural events, and many other activities. For more information, please visit their website: https://www.paulrobesonhouse.org.