The first in a series of seven music features about great 20th-century musicians
Paul Robeson 1898-1976
More than 50 years ago, Paul Robeson sang ' 01' Man River' in the London production of ' Show-boat ' and became a star overnight. Born the son of a slave, he was a gifted athlete and scholar, a fighter for civil rights, and perhaps the greatest black actor and singer America has ever known.
Dame Peggy Ashcroft , Dame Flora Robson , Elisabeth Welch
Andrew Faulds , Paul Robeson Jr are among those who tell the story of a man who rose to international fame, was persecuted for his political beliefs, and ended his life as a recluse.
Inscribed on his gravestone are the words: The artist must elect to fight for freedom or for slavery. I have made my choice. I had no alternative.'
Narrator BREWSTER MASON
Film editor ALLAN TYRER
Produced by GEOFFREY BAINES
'Next week Dave Brubeck - a portrait oj the jazz pianist and composer)