An Enriching Journey in Amsterdam with James Baldwin Featuring Charles Reese

3 min readAug 2, 2023
Photo By: Dr. Jae Williams

Written By: Alexis Cranford (Contributing Writer)

An Evening in History with James Baldwin Featuring Charles Reese

The highlight of my experience in Amsterdam was undoubtedly the sold-out signature literary performance salon series, “An Evening in History with James Baldwin Featuring Charles Reese,” held at the prestigious Bijlmer Parktheather. Charles Reese, an experienced and seasoned Actor, Writer, Speaker, and CEO of Teeth and Eyes Communications, provided a captivating portrayal of James Baldwin.

Charles Reese’s dedication to understanding the mind of James Baldwin was evident in his flawless performance. Over several decades, Reese immersed himself in Baldwin’s works, letters, and speeches, gaining profound insights into the author’s thoughts and emotions. Reese’s preparation was a testament to his commitment to preserving and honoring Baldwin’s legacy, allowing the audience to experience the essence of the literary giant on a profound level.

Photos By: Dr. Jae Williams

The salon show was not only mesmerizing but also remarkably interactive and engaging. Charles Reese masterfully pulled the audience in with great emotion, leaving us on the edge of our seats. His delivery of Baldwin’s words was not a mere recitation but a compelling embodiment of the author’s emotions and convictions. Reese skillfully weaved together Baldwin’s literary works, speeches, and personal anecdotes, effortlessly navigating between humor, pathos, and intellectual depth. As he conveyed Baldwin’s experiences of racism, discrimination, and the quest for identity, the audience was moved to a profound sense of empathy and connection.

Editors Note: The above review is an excerpt of a previously written essay by the Author.

Photo By: Courtesy of the Artist

About the Guest Author: Alexis Cranford

Meet Alexis Imani Cranford, a dynamic and accomplished individual passionate about education, empowerment, and community engagement. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature and an MBA in Marketing. Now pursuing a Doctoral Degree in Communication Studies, Alexis eagerly anticipates making an impact in the field. As an advocate for her community and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., she uplifts and empowers those around her. Alexis is an influential blogger, tackling important topics with vulnerability and fostering unity within her community. Guided by her faith, she ministers to others and expresses her creativity through fashion, empowering others to embrace their individuality. Her unwavering belief in a higher purpose inspires her remarkable journey of boundless possibilities.

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Charles Reese
Charles Reese

Written by Charles Reese

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Actor, Architect for Public Engagement

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