Splendid Mummer by Lonne Elder

Lonne Elder’s one man play charts the life of the black Shakespearian actor Ira Aldridge (1807-1867) who in his time become renowned in England and Europe. Shango Baku gives a passionate yet sensitive performance as he portrays Aldridge’s rise to fame in the theatre and his off-stage adultery.

Aldridge, born in New York, had a chance encounter with English actor Henri Wollack who took him under his wing. As a result, he came to London to further his acting career. His reputation developed and he seized the opportunity to play Othello at Covent Garden. He found favour with the public but not with the critics. Undeterred, he himself formed his own company, married an Englishwoman and toured the capitals of Europe where his adultery occurred.

Shango Baku demonstrates the power of Aldridge’s delivery with passages from Othello and other Shakespearian tragedies. It is an enjoyable and interesting experience in which the story of Ira Aldridge fascinates.

*** 

B

Fringe Programme Page No

226

Company

 Shango Baku

Venue Name and Number

Sweet Grass market, Apex City Hotel; V 18

Dates and Times

    20 to 26 August 2007  13.25 to 14.40

Comedy 2007

Music 2007

Others 2007

Theatre 2007

Musicals 2007

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