"Speak of Me as I Am" is a superbly moving one-man performance about the music and life of Paul Robeson (1898-1976), a man who reached people with his voice like none other in his time. A graduate of Rutgers University and Colombia Law School, before he began his acting and vocal career, he remains an important persona of American History. Paul Robeson was not only dedicated to African American Civil Rights, but to the worldwide causes of humanity, freedom, peace and brotherhood.
Until now there has not been a voice known to bring to life the spirit, sound, words and music of Paul Robeson like KB Solomon! Solomon possesses a true bass voice that is a hybrid of rare ability. He is one of the most prominent basso profundo singers, having performed principal roles with major opera companies worldwide for twenty years. Directing the evening's special performance is the internationally celebrated Jeffrey Anderson-Gunter, who is also joined by the acclaimed Kirk Taylor, as pianist and musical director.
Premium and VIP ticket holders will have the opportunity to meet KB Solomon, and receive a CD at a post-reception "under the stars" at USC's noted Morton & Fig restaurant. Parking is not included, but will be discounted for the event.
THE BLACK ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
For the second year in a row, the USC Black Alumni Association is proud to host a special benefit event that will not only bring its alumni and the entire USC community together in celebration and support of its scholarship mission, but inspire all in attendance to experience culture through the intersections of art and history.
The BAA was established in 1976 by the late Reverend Dr. Thomas Kilgore, renowned civil rights activist and Senior Advisor to USC Presidents. Since its inception, the BAA has provided more than $2 million dollars in total scholarship awards to over 2000 USC students. Additionally, the BAA uniquely offers Alumni Mentoring, Pre-career workshops and Toastmaster Chapter membership to each of its scholarship recipients.
The BAA provides undergraduate, graduate and professional program scholarships for students accepted into every USC School. The BAA Scholarship can be renewed each year by the student until they graduate from USC, thereby becoming an important grant in the total USC financial aid award package.
Proceeds from this event will be directed to BAA scholarships (undergraduate, matched 2:1) and programs for the upcoming academic year.
