Charles Reese will present "James Baldwin: A Soul On Fire" at the Enoch Pratt Central Library Poe Room this Saturday, 2/16 at 2 PM. Let's pack the house! Reese is a performing artist, educator and Moorehouse alumnus, who is based in Los Angeles. This event promises to be an electrifying portrayal of the famed American writer and civil rights activist. Audience participation is not only encouraged, but demanded by Reese, who is a talented and engaging.
The Salon will include animated readings from "James Baldwin: A Soul on Fire," a book version of the critically acclaimed Off Broadway Play, written by the late Howard B. Simon. Reese, not only starred in the play, he actually brought Baldwin to life in an amazing fashion. The production was described as "funny, thrilling and wise, bouyed by the passionate performance of Reese in the title role."
Reese will also lead a discussion on Baldwin's importance as a writer and civil right's activist. The effects of Baldwin's homosexuality on his life and work will also be explored. After the death of the playwright, who was a fellow Moorehouse alumnus, Reese had the opportunity to edit the book which resulted from the play. Autographed copies will be available at the event.
The book and play explore Baldwin's tumultuous thoughts as he prepares for a secret meeting with Attorney General Robert Kennedy in New York on May 24, 1963. The purpose of the meeting-which took place three months before the famous March On Washington- was to discuss race relations in America. Also in attendance were Harry Belafonte, Lorraine Hansberry, Lena Horne, Dr. Kenneth Clarke and a young freedom fighter, Jerome Smith, among others.
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| Charles Reese kicked off "Free Fall Baltimore" a few months ago at Studio Kafi, 1917 St. Paul St.
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It is Reese's great pleasure to pay tribute to the brillant author during this special year that marks the 50th Annivesary of Baldwin's important meeting with Kennedy, as well as the publication of his searing essay, "The Fire Next Time."
I recently attended a presentation by Januwa Moja at Paula Whaley's Gallery on Charles St. Paula Whaley is Baldwin's youngest sister and has made Baltimore her home. She is a fabulous artist in her own right, and her "soft sculpture art" is pervaded by the essence of healing energy.
I was driving and had almost arrived at the event, when I first laid eyes on Charles Reese. He cut quite a figure as he strolled up Charles St.! Even after I passed him, I peered curiously at him through my rearview mirror. He clearly was not one of the homeless people I was used to seeing in the area. He was oozing with character and appeared to be enjoying the brisk autumn air as he took in the sights and sounds of Charm City. At the time I had no idea that he was a kindred Spirit, whom I would come to claim as a brother. I wasn't at all surprised to see him enter the Gallery a few minutes later, and begin to talk animatedly with everyone he met.
Aside from enjoying Januwa's presentation of her fashion show video from her trip to Cuba, Reese was there to announce that his Baldwin Salon would be held the next evening at The Kafi Studio. He was so engaging that just about everyone in attendance also made their way to his event.
It was a fabulous evening that began with a showing of historic video from the play, and included an enthusiastic call and response between Reese and the audience followed by his literary performance. Talented performer/educator Koli Tengella and his equally expressive wife Dr. Renee Tengella also presented spirited Baldwin readings. WEAA Talk Show Host, Anthony McCarthy made a special appearance and joined in the discussion.
Among those present at the standing room only event was Reporter/Producer, Charles Robinson from Maryland Public Television; Graphic Artist Kylis Winborne and his wife, who was preparing for an exhibit at Eubie Blake; Public Relations expert, Caprece Jackson-Garett; Photographer Anderson Ward; Dr. Martina Callum, M.D.; Entrepreuer, Rose Blyther; and Sheila Hatcher.
