A new play from Tony Award-nominated playwright and Detroit native Dominique Morisseau explores how institutional racism and gender bias continue to shape American society. “Confederates” opens at Detroit Public Theatre Feb. 6, and runs through March 16. It’s directed by Detroit-based poet and playwright Goldie Patrick. 

Set across two time periods, the play intertwines the lives of two Black women: Sara, an enslaved woman who becomes a Union spy during the Civil War, and Sandra, a contemporary political science professor confronting racial and gender discrimination at an elite university. Through contrasting experiences, separated by over 160 years, the play examines how similar forces of oppression persist across generations.

“Confederates” premiered off-Broadway in 2022 and has since gained critical acclaim for its bold storytelling. The Detroit-based production offers both a historical and contemporary lens on the ongoing fight for equality and justice. 

Host Stephen Henderson talks with Patrick about why “Confederates” is such a great production for Detroit audiences and what she hopes they will take away from it. Plus, she reflects on what it means to her to be directing the play at home in Detroit.