Recorded at the Lensic Theater in Santa Fe, New Mexico on February 27, 2013.

Celebrate Harlem Renaissance writer Langston Hughes–affectionately known as Shakespeare in Harlem–in this one-person-dramatic rendition of Hughes’ poems and short stories. Actor and writer David Mills’ performance takes the audience on an odyssey spanning five decades—from the 1920s through the 1960s — of Hughes’ writings, where Mills portrays Hughes’ notable characters, such as Madam Alberta K. Johnson and Jessie B. Simple. Mills has worked professionally in the dramatic and literary communities for more than a decade. For three years, he lived in Langston Hughes’ landmark home where he was inspired to create his tribute.

This event was part of the Lannan Literary series.

David Mills is an actor and writer. He has worked professionally in the dramatic and literary communities for more than a decade. For three years, he lived in Langston Hughes’ landmark home where he was inspired to create his tribute.

Additional photos of this event are available on Flickr.

You may learn more about this event on the Lannan website; you may also view the video recording of this event there.