SUGAR AND GOLD: STORIES OF THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD makes it’s world premiere at the MCC on January 27th. This new dynamic musicalfeatures fascinating and riveting stories of the Underground Railroad written by Diana Braithwaite, a direct descendant of the first fugitives who arrived in Canada from America. Rare photographs and unique images provide a rich historical backdrop to the production while a colourful enchanting musical score with original songs written by Braithwaite and partner award winning composer Chris Whiteley, embellish the story with an uplifting musical soundscape. Sugar And Gold: Stories of the Underground Railroad begins with the sugar and gold trade in the 1600’s and weaves this captivating remarkable story through the centuries.
On February 18th the MCC presents CALL MR. ROBESON: A LIFE WITH SONGS. Paul Robeson is a world-famous actor, singer and civil rights campaigner. When he gets too radical and outspoken for the establishment's liking, he is branded a traitor to his country, is harassed, and denied opportunities to perform or travel.This roller-coaster journey through Robeson’s remarkable life highlights how his pioneering and heroic political activism led many to describe him as the forerunner of the civil rights movement. It features some famous songs (including a dramatic rendition of Ol’ Man River), speeches, and a spectacularly defiant testimony to the Senate House Un-American Activities Committee.One of the 20th Century’s most impressive but overlooked figures is revived in this powerful, compelling tour-de-force performance, performed at New York’s Carnegie Hall in February 2012.