From March 5-23, the Playmakers Repertory Company showcased “Confederates,” a thought-provoking play by Dominique Morisseau, directed by Christopher Windom. This story intertwines the lives of two Black women from different times: Sara, an enslaved woman spying for the Union during the Civil War, and Sandra, a modern-day political science professor facing racism in academia.
Sara is depicted by Mengwe Wapimewah, while Kathryn Hunter-Williams brings Sandra to life. Despite their vastly different circumstances, both women grapple with oppression. Sandra, one of the few Black professors at her university, experiences subtle forms of discrimination, while Sara faces the brutal realities of enslavement. Their connection deepens through a photograph of Sara’s mother, which is used in a current harassment incident against Sandra.
Morisseau cleverly uses humor to shed light on how systemic oppression has shaped both the past and present. The interplay of comedy and serious themes allows the audience to recognize the biases that persist today, mirroring the overt racism of Sara’s time. This approach resonates with viewers, as it illustrates that laughter can be a form of resilience.
Kate Poss, a senior psychology major, shared her experience after watching “Confederates” live. She noted that humor stood out more on stage than in the script she read for her Drama 288 class, where the play felt more intense. “Seeing that made me appreciate the broader themes and realize that humor can help break the trauma cycle,” she commented.
Jacqueline Lawton, the play’s dramaturg and a professor at UNC, emphasized how the characters are intertwined across time. Unique performances include actors playing dual roles. Kristofer Wilson, for example, portrays both Abner, Sara’s brother fighting for freedom, and Malik, a contemporary student striving to succeed amidst racial challenges. Elizabeth Dye embodies both Missy Sue, the plantation owner’s daughter, and Candice, a student of Sandra. Though these characters offer admiration, their patronizing attitudes reveal ignorance that can be harmful.
Dye remarked, “I think both Missy Sue and Candice mean well, but they often miss the mark, showing how ignorance can be detrimental.”
The play has sparked conversations about racial issues, both past and present. According to a recent survey by the American Psychological Association, 73% of Black Americans report experiencing discrimination in their lives. “Confederates” powerfully reflects these ongoing struggles and challenges audiences to confront uncomfortable truths.
In a time where discussions about race and equity are crucial, “Confederates” provides a unique lens to view America’s history and its continuing impact on society today. The stories of Sara and Sandra invite us to reflect on the advancements made and the work still needed to achieve true equality.
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