Sam Wanamaker talks about Paul Robeson

In April 1987, Trinidadian author Ron Ramdin came to what was then the Globe Theatre building site, to record an interview with Sam Wanamaker for research into a biography he was writing about legendary black singer, actor and activist Paul Robeson.

Over a period of nearly two hours Sam Wanamaker discussed America, art, fascism and racism, as well as the acclaimed 1959 Stratford-upon-Avon production of Othello, in which he starred with Robeson.

Twenty years later Ron Ramdin brought the tapes to The Globe, believing they were of historic importance and should be heard by a wider audience. His recordings were carefully edited and digitally remastered to produce a half-hour CD of conversation, intertwined with excerpts of Robeson’s music and contextualizing ‘links’ by Ramdin. In addition, the accompanying eight-page booklet includes extensive liner notes by Ramdin together with photographs by Lord Snowdon of the 1959 Stratford production. The end result is a concise narrative that will engage, entertain and illuminate.

Wanamaker and Robeson met in the early 1940’s when the two men shared a platform at anti-fascism meetings. Throughout the 1940’s, Robeson had championed the Russian people, but with the outbreak of the Cold War he was regarded with suspicion and labelled a supporter of communism, and thus by default anti-American. Overnight, Robeson went from national hero to pariah – his reputation in tatters.

Wanamaker was himself called to testify before the notorious House Committee on Un-American Activity for his beliefs. At the time he was working in the UK and although subpoenaed, the committee did not have legal jurisdiction in this country and the subpoena could not be served. Wanamaker declined to return to the US. Robeson was not so fortunate and for five years his right to travel was revoked as he was subjected to internal exile.

In 1959, the two men came together again in Stratford-upon-Avon in what would prove to be one of the most famous Shakespearian productions of all time. Robeson was now a broken man, profoundly affected by events of the previous decade. He was cast in what was to be his final performance as Othello, with Wanamaker playing opposite as Iago. This legendary performance left Sam Wanamaker in no doubt that Paul Robeson was the ‘definitive Othello of our time’.

Globe Editions CD: Sam Wanamaker talks about Paul Robeson available from www.globe-shop.com priced £6.99.

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