“As an artist I come to sing, but as a citizen, I will always speak for peace, and no one can silence me in this.” — Paul Robeson.
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.
September 12, 2024
Hollowbrook Golf Club
1060 Oregon Road, Cortlandt Manor, NY
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.
Mark S. Doss & The Pegasus Orchestra: Here I Stand
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.
Karén Hakobyan | artistic director, principal conductor, & piano
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.
Robeson in Peekskill Project
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.
Can’t join us for the Gala?
You can still make a difference by making a fully tax-deductible donation.