Sat. March 24

Corey Manning’s one-man show Saturday March 24 at Roxbury Center for the Arts Hiberian Hall is called "Confessions of … A Black Man in Boston." But it’s not really just one man. Manning – who started doing comedy in Boston in 2001 – plays several characters (including three women) in this production, which he’s been sculpting over the past nine months. "The concept is if he had to be honest, what would you ask a black man?" says Manning. "People find me personable, and they tend to ask questions they wouldn’t ask others: Black women ask ‘Why can’t men settle down with one woman?’ White people ask ‘Why are black people so angry about things that shouldn’t necessarily be angry about? And why do black comedians seem to always talk about the difference between black people and white people?’"

Manning, who graduated with a theater degree from North Carolina Central, mixes song, dance and drama into the show. He says there is conflict, there is edge. "Comedy and the stage takes down the wall," Manning says. "Being in Boston, people shy away from talking about racism, like it doesn’t exist." On stage is where Manning explores the reality – and at the end of the show opens it up to a Q and A. He says his comedy is the Chris Rock vein, but when he’s on the comedy stage "I’m somewhat limited as to how far I can push the envelope. With this piece, I’m able to do that." Manning is taping the show and hopes to take it on the road. Starts at 8 p.m. Tickets; $20 at door, $15 advance.

182-186 Dudley St., Roxbury, 617-541-3900 RCAHH,org/2007season