2008 Woodie Awards
Down from the Mountaintop
A one man show based on American writer James Baldwin's life
Nicole Juner
Issue date: 2/14/07 Section: Entertainment
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James Baldwin wrote about topics such as sexual, personal identity, and human rights.
In the play, he recounts growing up in Harlem in the 1920s, his first sexual experiences, and his relationship with his mentor Beauford Delaney.
He was also friends and rivals with such names as Marlon Brando, Truman Capote, Norman Mailer, and Lansgton Hughes.
The play also discusses his writing and publishing of works-including "Go Tell It On The Mountain"-and his connections with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X and his involvement in the civil rights movement.
He wrote a critically acclaimed essay, "The Fire Next Time", about the condition of the black scene in America and predicts riots and violence in the streets.
Later, in 1970 he moved from America to France. All this leads up to his diagnosis of cancer and subsequent death in 1983 at his home in the South of France.
Calvin Levels has earned rave reviews for his portrayal of Baldwin-the Tony Award nominee also wrote the play.
His rendering captures the spirit of Baldwin and effectively communicates his messages of equality and social justice.
"Down From the Mountaintop" is playing for one night only on Thursday, Feb. 15 at 8 p.m. in Warren Auditorium.
It is free for SSU students, faculty, and staff and $10 for the general public.