The Black King of Vaudeville – Remembering Bert Williams in Song

About

Bert Williams (1874-1922) was one of the pre-eminent entertainers of the vaudeville era, and one of the most popular comedians for all audiences of his time. In an age when racial inequality and stereotyping were commonplace, he became the first Black American to take pioneer leading roles, both on Broadway and in the 1914 film Darktown Jubilee, pushing back racial barriers in his three-decade career. Tony-nominated actor Larry Marshall (Jesus Christ Superstar, Hair, Porgy & Bess) rejuvenates the life and music of Bert Williams on stage.