SUPREME bass-baritone Willard White makes a welcome return visit to the Hall for Cornwall on Friday, July 17, when he presents

Robeson Re-explored

.

This one-off performance will see Willard explore more of the repertoire and life story of this important icon of the last century.

Paul Robeson epitomised the energy and integrity of the major figures who raised awareness of equality and human rights in the mid-20th century. The story of his example is moving and very relevant to today's world.

Willard White's captivating voice and presence, and clear love of the music and life of Paul Robeson, made his concert programme

A Tribute to Paul Robeson

a wonderful evening in the theatre.

This new show follows on with Neal Thornton leading the same group of outstanding accompanying musicians, including Guy Barker on trumpet, and augmented by the Pavão String Quartet to bring orchestral textures to tailor-made arrangements of more popular songs from the Paul Robeson songbook.

The programme includes Negro spirituals, British folk song and classic early jazz songs.

The concert concludes with his rendition of

Ol' Man River

. Willard takes on the mantle of the legendary Paul Robeson with the quality of a master craftsman.

The performance starts at 7.30pm and tickets are £21.50 and £19.50 with concessions and a 90p Theatre Fund payment added to each ticket sold. Book now by calling the box office on 01872 262466 or book online at www.hallforcornwall.co.uk

"It takes a larger-than-life figure to begin to pay homage to Paul Robeson… Willard White has charisma and vocal power to spare..."

The Times

"…in his ardent, animating tribute, White seemed to burn the songs' meanings into his listeners' psyches. Dignity, dramatic intensity and a voice that, were it a tree, could only be a deeply grounded and majestic redwood are also the characteristics of White."

Los Angeles Times