One-man performance of “Paul Robeson” comes to Carson-Newman

(Feb. 11, 2014) – Carson-Newman University welcomes actor and vocalist Horace E. Smith III to the Thomas Recital Hall stage Monday, Feb. 17, for a one-man performance of “Paul Robeson.”

The play profiles the life of actor, vocalist and civil rights activist Paul Robeson. The nonfictional historical production follows Robeson from his childhood in New Jersey to his college days as one of the first African-Americans at Rutgers University and to his career as a celebrated actor and musical performer. He was the 1945 recipient of the NAACP’s Springarn Medal for his outstanding achievements in theatre and on the concert stage.

“He traces his life from childhood to adulthood,” said Dr. Bethany White, Carson-Newman professor of English, who has seen Smith perform. “To see a man who is over six-feet tall take on the persona of a child that is believable is simply incredible. That was one of the most riveting moments.”

Smith’s performance will begin at 7 p.m. as part of Carson-Newman’s Concert-Lecture Series and is open to the public, free of charge. Thomas Recital Hall is located in Carson-Newman’s Tarr Music Center.