Playwright

PURE CONFIDENCE 

The high stakes world of Civil War era horse racing is the stage for this riveting drama of slavery and Reconstruction.  Both Simon Cato, a smart, cocky “colored” jockey, and his horse, Pure Confidence, are owned by Colonel Wiley Johnson.  Cato uses his wits and his championship winnings to buy his and his wife’s freedom.  But the Civil War changes everything and the passage of time doesn’t bring Cato the success he expects.  A surprisingly funny, daring and emotionally moving look at the complexity of race, humanity, love and dignity in the second half of the 19^th century.  With a vivid backdrop of fast horses, gritty racetracks and high stakes betting, Pure Confidence is an extraordinary tale of human triumphs and failings that explore the true meaning of freedom.

Commissioned and developed by Actors Theatre of Louisville and Alabama Shakespeare Festival.

World Premiere: Actors Theatre of Louisville Humana Festival, 2005

                            Subsequent Productions:

                                                Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 2006

                                                Cincinnati Play House In The Park, 2007

                                                Denver Center Theatre Company, 2007

Published:  Dramatists Play Service, 2007
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