Shakespeare of Harlem: Exploring the Life and Legacy of Langston Hughes

Join Opera on Tap Boston for Shakespeare of Harlem, a concert celebrating the life, work, and enduring influence of Langston Hughes. The program weaves Hughes’ poetry and prose with art songs by composers such as Margaret Bonds and Florence Price, alongside the voices of his contemporaries, including Georgia Douglas Johnson and Countee Cullen.

An ensemble of celebrated local actor-singers brings the text and music to life, illuminating the ideas, experiences, and cultural moments that shaped Hughes as a writer. The performance will be followed by a talkback, offering audiences a chance to discuss with the artists and the material in conversation.

Free and open to the public; registration will open in February.

Featuring:

Morgan Beckford, Soprano

Melynda Davis, Soprano

Todd McNeel, Baritone

Fred C. VanNess Jr., Tenor

Julian Gau, Pianist

Producers:

Nina Evelyn and Kathryn McKellar