LOS ANGELES -- The African Tragedian, Robin Scott Peters' solo-performance docudrama about the 19th-century African American Shakespearean actor Ira Frederick Aldridge, will open at the Actors Workout Studio in North Hollywood Apr. 3 at 8 PM.

The play is based on the life of Aldridge, who gained fame performing Shakespeare in Europe. In order to be judged for his talent alone, Aldridge chose exile rather than accept discrimination in America.

The African Tragedian involves the use of gospel music, dance, Shakespearean monologues and sonnets interwoven with a narrative illuminating the spirt of the actor, who never lost hope or love.

Actor/playwright Peters holds a PH.D. from UCLA's School of Theatre, Film & Television has appeared on TV and on stage. He is a professor of theatre at California State University, San Bernardino.

The work will be performed Fri. at 8 PM in an open-ended run at the Actors Workshop Studio , 4735 Lankershim Blvd. For tickets, $12.50, call (818) 996-0505. -- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent