4-02-2026 3:00pm

The 2026 Paul Robeson Arts Festival Is Almost Here

Donnella Tilery Editor

April, now officially recognized as a month of tribute to Paul Robeson, this year’s festival carries special meaning. On March 31, 2025, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed Bill AJR‑217/SJR‑46, designating April 9 as Paul Robeson Day each year. In honor of this milestone, the Paul Robeson Arts Festival has moved to April — a fitting way to celebrate Robeson’s enduring legacy of artistry, activism, and community strength.

Here's a list of upcoming events from their newsletter and social media:

Saturday, April 11 — 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM

Somerville Middle School Gymnasium

The Young Picassos
Herrin the Poet
Christine Dixon performing as Harriet Tubman
Fine artist Veronica Spruill
Local and emerging artists
An expanded Quilt Exhibit
Hands‑on crafts for all ages
A special pop‑up museum highlighting local history and the lasting impact of Paul Robeson

This annual gathering continues to honor Robeson’s legacy by bringing people together through creativity, culture, and shared community pride.

RSVP for the April 11 festivities: https://www.ucpavilion.org/event-details/2026-ucp-paul-robeson-arts-festival?utm_campaign=d19e41e3-88b5-43e8-a492-394da3486687&utm_source=so&utm_medium=mail&cid=471369b8-a44a-4f55-a9e2-d510789dee1e

Saturday, April 18: Back by popular demand, the beloved "Young Paul Robeson Sings" takes the stage once more — with a deeper, richer story that builds to a powerful, unforgettable finale you won't want to miss. Written and directed by theater veteran, Marshall Jones III, Young Paul Robeson Sings features acclaimed Broadway vocalist Nathaniel Stampley, Jr., stage and screen actor Stephen Conrad Moore, and musical director and pianist Carl Laventure.

Each performance runs approximately one hour, with both matinee and evening showtimes. A brief Q&A will follow each performance, offering audiences an opportunity to engage more deeply with the themes and stories brought to life on stage.

United Reform Church, 100 W. Main Street, Somerville, NJ 3PM Matinee +

6:30PM Evening performance