When asked to describe Henry Rollins, what may come to mind? If one is measured by their actions, Rollins is an encyclopedia. If one is measured by their beliefs, he is a religion, of course, without the years of institutional oppression. Hell, if one is measured by the number of intensive questionings by authorities, Rollins is a fucking revolutionary. The truth is, Rollins is known for many things, far too wide-ranging to fit into a single shade of story.
From immersing himself in the LA metal scene in the 1980s in Black Flag, or as a global humanitarian, actor, and Spoken Word Orator; Rollins has forged an eclectic empire of empathy, with steadfast prose and straightforward conversation to simply anyone willing to engage with him. From scooping sundaes at a Häagen-Dazs to scooping a role in Sons of Anarchy, Rollins continues his relentless procession in any direction against the norms of subservient fear-mongering.
And this Sunday, Rollins will bring his latest showcase, Travel Slideshow to Richmond to give fans a taste of what he’s been up to these last few years.
Travel Slideshow is a reflection of Rollins’’ time aiding overseas in limitless scope stretching from the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia, South America and Antarctica. Combining photos taken over the years, Rollins will tell the stories behind these photos that continue the same fiercely intense empathy behind his enlightening performances that defined his craft. The act will showcase archived photographs Rollins has shot from locations ranging from the sun-soaked plains of Masaka, Uganda across southern Sudan, revealing the very insight that have shaped both his focus and drive for social reform across the world. Rollins works with Drop in the Bucket, a non-profit organization poised at supplying various schools in Africa with water, with the hope it improves attendance rates and literacy for thousands of children across the continent.
Rollins’ Travel Slideshow will open at The National this Sun., Jan. 14, at 7:30 PM. Reserve seat tickets are $20-$29.50 and you can snag yours here, or at The National box office (reg hours M-F 10a-5p).
In no better phrase than from Henry Rollins himself, “If you don’t go, you won’t know.” Just don’t trip into your knee on the way there.
Photo Credit: Heidi May
