A commemorative event dedicated to the memory of social justice activist, actor and athlete Paul Robeson, who led Glasgow's Mayday Parade in 1960 is to take place next month.
Led by Robeson, the parade wound its way through the city from Glasgow Green to Queen's Park , where Robeson sang one of his most popular songs, Ol’ Man River, in a moving live performance, which drew in thousands of spectators.
On May 3rd, the team at Inhouse CIC are commemorating the event by dedicating an evening to Paul Robeson at Queen’s Park Arena.
Through song, an introduction by Lost Glasgow’s Norry Wilson, and the award winning play, Call Mr Robeson, they will revive the life of the activist.
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The play has been specially adapted for the outdoors and charts Robeson’s past, highlighting his pioneering political activism, which led many to describe him as the forerunner of the civil rights movement.
It also features his famous songs, speeches, and a testimony to the Senate House Un-American Activities Committee.
Kirsty Hood, local resident, and Director of Social Enterprise Inhouse Events said: "We're very proud to have this evening launching 2019’s programme.
"Paul Robeson’s performance in the park is an important part of the city’s history, it is truly inspiring to see the footage of how many people went to see him perform in 1960.
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"We've heard snippets of memories of those who were there, but we hope that this event gives us the opportunity to collate them together, and of course commemorate the life of the man himself."
The Inhouse team are also looking to capture the memories of those who were at the original performance in 1960 to create an accompanying programme for the performance.
If you were there on the day, the team are asking you to email any memories to qpa@inhouse.scot, or call 0141 816 9989.
