 |
Clarence Darrow: Crimes, Causes and the Courtroom
A master of the courtroom stage, who possessed an uncanny understanding of human character, Clarence Darrow was arguably the
greatest trial lawyer of the twentieth century. He was an adamant opponent of capital punishment and a passionate proponent of
civil and human rights. He was often called the "Attorney for the Damned," because he fought for the underdog and took on
criminal cases thought to be hopeless. Yet, while commanding respect as a trial lawyer, Darrow was often embroiled in bitter
controversy for his unpopular stands on many issues and criticized for his purported unethical professional behavior.
Clarence Darrow: Crimes, Causes and the Courtroom is a spellbinding and realistic character portrait of Darrow and his deeply held beliefs and hard fought courtroom battles. This solo performance by Graham Thatcher, replete with humor, humanity and intense courtroom drama, engages the audience in four of the great defense lawyer's most famous cases between 1910 and 1928: Loeb and Leopold, Henry Sweet, the McNamara Brothers bombing of the LA Times Building and the Scopes "Monkey Trial." Using Darrow's own thoughts and courtroom summations, the show explores timeless social, legal and ethical issues and provides a fresh and provocative tool to facilitate audience discussion.
Clarence Darrow: Crimes, Causes and the Courtroom, presented with a post-performance discussion, has been approved for CLE credit (including Ethics and Professionalism credit) in the states where it has been offered. CLE materials are provided and credit varies from 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on individual state requirements. Please contact if you have questions about CLE credit.
Clarence Darrow: Crimes, Causes and the Courtroom
© 1994 - 2007, Anna Marie and Graham Thatcher
For Booking Information Contact:
Anna Marie Thatcher, J.D.
Managing Producer
(605) 787-7099
Click here for preview video of Clarence Darrow: Crimes, Causes and the Courtroom.
What Your Colleagues Are Saying...
- "On behalf of the Commission I express appreciation to you for the outstanding performance of Clarence Darrow: Crimes, Causes and the Courtroom at the 1996 Convocation on Professionalism!"
(Robert Benham, Former Chief Justice, Supreme Court of GA) - "The work you did . was extraordinary. It was an inspiring and moving performance not to be missed."
(Robert Sheran, Associate Justice, Retired, Minnesota Supreme Court) - "I was deeply moved by the play and impressed by the scope of what you . did. It is my hope that Darrow may be used as both entertainment . and for discussion of personal values and professional ethics with lawyers and law students."
(Rosalie Wahl, Chief Justice, Retired, Supreme Court of Minnesota) - ". A powerful, thought-provoking play. Students and professors alike should appreciate the opportunity to pay heed to some of the broader issues facing members of the profession. "
(Barry R. Vickrey, Dean, University of South Dakota School of Law) - "I commend you for the important work you are doing in developing innovative, effective programs for teaching Ethics and Professionalism."
(Cliff Brashier, Executive Director, Georgia Commission on Continuing Lawyer Competency) - The acting and staging . were simply outstanding. Bottom line . you were a big hit!
(Edward M. Patterson. Esq. , Director of Programs, Alabama State Bar) - "This was an extraordinary experience - not your usual run-of-the-mill CLE. Your relationship with the audience was incredible. We were with you from start to finish and the rapport was 'otherworldly.'" (Yvette Leerskoff Gardner, Past President, Wichita Bar Association)
- "The script is outstanding and Thatcher's performance exceptional and compelling!"
(Kenneth Tilsen, Attorney, St. Paul, MN) - "Thank you for your presentation. Several colleagues told me they have never learned so much while being entertained! It was the highlight of our convention!"
(Thomas G. Fritz, Past President, South Dakota Bar Association) - "A truly compelling performance that was thought provoking as well."
(Jim Robinson, Attorney at Law, Wichita, KS) - "[Your] overview of Clarence Darrow's life is nothing short of inspired and inspirational."
(Todd A. Schweiger, Attorney at Law, Rapid City, SD) - "Thanks for convincing PBI to sponsor the most thought-provoking CLE I've ever attended. I certainly hope you continue to develop future dramatic presentations that continue to nourish the consistently parched landscape of CLE."
(Frank Butler, Assistant Professor, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA)