Brian Copeland in "Not a Genuine Black Man"

2250 Bancroft Avenue,San Leandro CA 94577

20 February, 2022

Description

Brian Copeland's brilliant one-man show "Not a Genuine Black Man" will have you laughing and crying! In 1971, San Leandro was named one of the most racist suburbs in America and Congressional hearings were held. The following year, Copeland (then 8-years-old) and his family moved to San Leandro. Told with terrific wit, yet searing honesty, Brian confronts what it meant to grow up an outsider and shows how he found the resilience and courage to claim his place in San Leandro. First performed at the Marsh Theatre in San Francisco, it caught fire, becoming the longest running solo show in San Francisco history, and has since been performed in New York, Los Angeles, and other venues. Don't miss it! "Copeland's ability to captivate an audience rivals many a celebrated solo predecessor, from Ruth Draper to Spalding Gray to Whoopi Goldberg". -Los Angeles Times "His depictions of his mother and grandmother are beautifully detailed and richly loving and funny, complex characterizations of quietly heroic women leavened with compensating idiosyncratic quirks and pretensions." - Robert Hurwitt, SF Chronicle Theater Critic With adult themes and profanity, "Not a Genuine Black Man" is not appropriate for children under 13. To attend this performance, all patrons must present proof of full vaccination status alongside a matching photo ID, or a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 48 hours of the performance start time. Please check for COVID-19 restriction updates on our website a few days before the performance. Smoking and alcohol are strictly prohibited inside the Arts & Education Center or on any grounds and facilities of the School District. Run time: 2 hours with one intermission We acknowledge and honor this area as the traditional Halkin (Jalquin) homeland of the Chochenyo and Bay Mewuk Ohlone people. These fifteen square miles between San Francisco Bay and the East Bay hills have supported many peoples whose culture and heritage weave a rich historical tapestry underlying the major metropolitan suburb of today. The volunteers of the San Leandro Historical Society are committed to preserving and celebrating the stories, heritage, and structures of our diverse community.