On February 11–for one night only–the Judge Karen J. Williams Courtroom at the UofSC School of Law will transform into a theatre to tell the story of one of the most revered American trial lawyers known for his courtroom theatrics–Clarence Darrow.
In the one-man traveling production, A Passion for Justice: An Encounter with Clarence Darrow, professional actor Paul Morella portrays the legendary defense attorney’s most emotional and explosive summations, his pleas for mercy, and the showdown with William Jennings Bryan on the teaching of evolution from Darrow’s most famous case, the 1925 Scopes “Monkey” Trial (TheState of Tennessee v. John Thomas Scopes).
The play was crafted primarily from Darrow’s own words, allowing audiences to hear verbatim his arguments not only in Scopes, but other famous courtroom arguments including from the Leopold and Loeb trial and the landmark 1925 civil rights trial of Ossian Sweet. However, it also explores the darker side of Darrow, examining the McNamara trial in which he was accused of bribery and jury tampering.
The production highlights what is perhaps Darrow’s greatest and most lasting contribution: His recognition that the courtroom was a powerful tool for social policy and change. His most celebrated and remembered cases involved issues that extended far beyond the interests of particular clients to the future of American society and justice. And his powerful defenses of freedom of speech, integration, and fair labor practices, combined with his passionate attacks on intolerance, capital punishment and abuse of power are as timely, relevant and resonant today as they were back in his time.
Free Admission, but tickets must be reserved to guarantee a seat.
Phone: 8037775611
2019/02/11 - 2019/02/11
University of South Carolina School of Law
1525 Senate Street, Columbia, SC 29208