Join us on September 12th for a very special evening at the Robeson in Peekskill Gala as we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Peekskill Riots and honor the enduring artistic legacy of Paul Robeson, along with his profound impact on civil rights in America and abroad.

 

The Robeson in Peekskill Gala will be held at Hollow Brook Golf Club in Cortlandt Manor, NY, at the very site where Robeson's first concert was scheduled but tragically canceled due to abhorrent racial violence. This location, just up the road from where his second concert took place, will set the stage for a truly memorable night hosted by Aaron Mair and featuring Grammy Award-winning bass-baritone Mark S. Doss accompanied by prinicipal members of  Pegasus: The Orchestra.

 

The evening will begin with an open bar reception featuring a harvest table drawn from locally sourced foods and provide you with the opportunity to learn more about Paul Robeson and the Peekskill Riots as we showcase a compelling photo exhibition that illuminates the significant events that took place in Peekskill and Cortlandt Manor 75 years ago. The reception will be followed by a delightful three-course meal and culminate in an unforgettable concert, offering a heartfelt tribute to Paul Robeson’s legacy, right at the historic site where these pivotal moments in our history unfolded.

 

We are looking forward to welcoming you to this opportunity to engage with history, celebrate resilience, and honor the iconic legacy of Paul Robeson, whose profound impact on music and civil rights continues to inspire generations.

 

The Robeson in Peekskill Gala provides an intimate and up-close experience with the artists and each other for donors of the Robeson in Peekskill Project. Donate now to secure your place at this memorable event and support us in highlighting the legacy of Paul Robeson and the history of Peekskill Riots. 

 

6:00 PM ---------------- Reception/ Cocktail Hour

7:00 PM ---------------- Welcoming Remarks

7:30 PM - 9:30 PM   Concert (includes a 20 minute intermission)

Dinner will be served pre-performance and dessert provided at intermission.

 

Grammy Award winning bass-baritone Mark S. Doss’ illustrious career has spanned prestigious opera houses across the globe, including Milan’s Teatro alla Scala, Turin’s Teatro Regio, and Lyric Opera of Chicago. Renowned for his commanding presence and rich bass-baritone voice, Doss has graced the stage in a multitude of roles, from Argante in Rinaldo to Germont in La Traviata. As a Grammy Award winner and recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including the George London Opera Prize, Doss's contributions to the world of opera are a testament to his unparalleled talent.

 

At the Robeson in Peekskill Gala, Doss will perform "Here I Stand" - a mesmerizing tribute to Paul Robeson that showcases the wide range of spirituals, folk songs, and classical masterpieces linked to Robeson's rise to stardom. 

Mark will be joined by Pegasus: The Orchestra, an ensemble of highly skilled musicians from diverse cultural backgrounds, including Armenia, Japan, Brazil, Russia, and the United States: 

 Karén Hakobyan | artistic director, principal conductor, & piano

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 Eiko Kano | Violin I, concertmaster

 Stani Dimitrova | Violin II, principal

 Andrew Gonzalez | Viola, principal

 Ari Evan | Cello, principal

 

All attendees will have the opportunity to meet and greet the performers.


Hollow Brook Golf Club, formerly known as Lakeland Acres

 

75 years after the Peekskill Riots, we have the extraordinary opportunity to host the Robeson in Peekskill Gala at the very site where the first chapter of this painful episode in American history took place. This event marks the first time an occasion honoring Paul Robeson is held at this significant location. It’s a powerful moment to reflect on past struggles, celebrate Robeson’s enduring legacy, and witness history come full circle. Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of a profound tribute and a memorable celebration of resilience and progress.

 

The Robeson in Peekskill Gala is the inaugural event of the Robeson in Peekskill Project. Proceeds will establish the Robeson in Peekskill Fund, which is dedicated to promoting awareness of this pivotal moment in history through annual events, educational outreach, and the construction of a permanent memorial commemorating the Peekskill Riots. Inspired by Paul Robeson's legacy, the foundation aims to stimulate positive change in our community through the work of artists.