What happens to a
man who is imprisoned for 29 years for a crime he didn’t commit? Does he sink
into despair as he rages against the machine, or can he find meaning in his
life so he reenters the world with dignity and a mission.
In this deeply
engaging play, the inspiring saga of Vance “Duke” Webster is almost a parallel
of Nelson Mandela’s journey to greatness. At age 17, Webster witnessed a murder
and, due to the code of honor he lived by, did not “snitch.” Then tumultuous events
in his personal life conspired to have him accused of that murder and thereby
sent away to Folsom Prison.
In this eloquent
play, adapted by Alexus Rhone based on the book she wrote with Webster, we
witness the misunderstandings that robbed him of 29 years and yet see how one
man, tormented and scorned, can stand proud when all seems lost.
Billy "Issim Dark"
Ramsey portrays Webster with naïve grace that aptly fits the shy man who speaks
to us by words in the play, and in person, after the performance. Most amazing
is Shanel Nicole Moore who not only directs with imaginative zest, but also swiftly
transforms into a series of women, his lovers, his mother, and even one troubled
young man right before our eyes. 
Produced by author Rhone, with John Brady of Opportunity BRIDGES as executive producer. At the Stephanie Feury Theatre, 5636 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles.
Performances vary so for future dates contact www.unshackledproductions.com
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