In 1959, after a long struggle the great actor, singer and human rights activist Paul Robeson played Othello at Stratford-upon-Avon. It was the climax of an astonishing career. Robeson spent a lifetime fighting racism and injustice and for 30 years was the most visible Afro-American in the world.

In the 1950s his socialism and championing of racial equality made Robeson the enemy of the US government. He was blacklisted at home, virtually unable to work, and his passport was revoked. A popular campaign spearheaded in Britain worked tirelessly for Robeson to return and play Othello - the role that stood at the heart of his vision of equality and justice.

Onstage and off, his achievements inspired, and continue to inspire, generations.