Paul Robeson 1958

'The Samson of Song' sings at St Paul's Cathedral

On 12 October 1958 one of the most significant performers and activists of his day, Paul Robeson, sang at St Paul’s Cathedral. To mark the sixtieth anniversary of this event we look back at that occasion and the life of this extraordinary man, whose story deserves to be celebrated much more widely.

Rise to Fame

Paul Robeson (1898-1976) was an American actor, bass-baritone singer and political activist, whose career spanned over forty years. He achieved success as an actor and singer on stage, playing Othello in London and New York, and on film, in 1936 adaptation of the musical Showboat. As an actor he tried to break out of the stereotypical parts traditionally given to African-Americans, seeking depth and dignity in his roles.

Politically, he was a staunch socialist, and gave vocal support to the International Brigades in the Spanish Civil War and was a frequent visitor to the Soviet Union, whose perceived racial tolerance he admired. He was also a strong supporter of the Civil Rights movement in the USA, refusing to perform before segregated audiences.

Troubles and Triumphs

In the 1950s, because of his political beliefs, he came under sharper scrutiny from the American authorities. His passport was confiscated in 1950 and it was impossible for him to perform abroad.

Due to his popularity in Britain, there was a considerable campaign to get Paul’s passport returned. Concerts were organised in the UK, to which Paul contributed by singing down the telephone line from America. Partly due to this pressure, Robeson’s passport was returned in 1958 and he travelled to Britain for a series of concerts. During this tour he made several television and radio appearances and also returned to the role of Othello at Stratford in 1959.

Paul Robeson at St Paul’s Cathedral

Paul was invited by John Collins, a Canon of the Cathedral, to sing at Evensong at St Paul’s on October 12^th 1958. Robeson’s appearance raised funds for the Defence in the South African Treason Trials, in which 156 people, including Nelson Mandela, were accused of treason. The service was attended by around 4,000 people, with many standing at the back, and there were huge crowds outside the Cathedral.

Paul sang a selection of spiritual songs from the Eagle Lectern and became the first black person to read The Lesson in the cathedral. After the service, he was congratulated by well-wishers both inside and outside the Cathedral.

For the month of October 2018 a bust of Paul Robeson  by the sculptor Jacob Epstein will be on display under the cathedral dome. It is on loan from York Museums Trust (York Art Gallery).

“The artist must take sides. He must elect to fight for freedom or slavery. I have made my choice. I had no alternative.” Paul Robeson 1937

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Researched by Anthony Stephens 2018