The Full Nelson

The Full Nelson, Donald Carr’s homage to Nelson Mandela, is a trip through the agony and ecstasy of Black History in the face of European colonialism. For Carr, Nelson Mandela is the latest in a succession of Black heroes who have overcome the brutal negativity of colonialism and apartheid and brought a message of redemption to the world. After 30 years on Robben Island, Nelson emerged with a message not of vengeance but of reconciliation.

Written and performed by Donald Carr, The Full Nelson is directed by Ronald Weihs and designed by Judith Sandiford. Billed as a “hip-hopera”, the work is divided into seven sections that Donald calls arias. Each one portrays a different character, tracing an aspect of the Black psyche through the pre-history and history of the world. Music, visual imagery and stage effects are all part of a spectacular multi-media experience.