A concert at the University of Chicago on March 27 will include music from a notable 1893 World’s Fair participant. “Love and Laughter: An Evening of Song,” featuring acclaimed baritone Kenneth Overton and internationally recognized pianist Casey Robards, will be a celebration of the rich artistic contributions of Black American composers and poets.
The program will include a special performance of a song cycle composed by Anthony Patterson, Robards’ husband, set to the poignant and evocative texts of renowned poet Paul Laurence Dunbar. Dunbar made his first appearance at the World’s Fair on “Colored People Day” (August 25) through the mentorship of Fredrick Douglass. Dunbar’s first collection of poetry, Oak and Ivy, was published in 1893. For more on Dunbar’s reading at the World’s Fair, visit https://www.paullaurencedunbar.org/2022/s237.
This concert is sponsored by New Rhythm Arts Collaborative and will take place at University Church (5655 S. University Avenue in Chicago). Tickets are $15.
