Langston Hughes: Conversations with Simple
Langston Hughes, nicknamed “The Poet Laureate of Harlem,” was among the first to give voice to the African-American Experience
“Simple” is one of Hughes’s finest literary creations. From the 1940s to the 1960s, Hughes wrote of Jesse B. Simple roaming the streets and clubs of Harlem. This “Everyman” or street philosopher gave advice and opinions on nearly everything, including politics, race, economics, and matters of the heart. Humorous and often outrageous, these tales established Simple’s place as one of literature’s great treasures.
Emmy-Award winning story performer Bobby Norfolk brings the uproariously funny Jesse B. Simple to life in this solo theatrical production, through a series of dialogues with Langston Hughes. This exciting new show is ideal for promoting literacy in older students, and great entertainment for adults.
Stories include:
- Feet Live Their Own Life
- Landladies
- A Toast to Harlem
- Last Whipping
- Getting Married to Joyce
- The Poem – Birds Word
Songs Include:
- Grandma’s Hands
- It’s Alright
- Hit the Road Jack
