A new play set to premiere at The Coterie Theatre aims to introduce to a new generation the remarkable story of Tom Bass, who was born enslaved but became a world-renowned horseman. He is generally recognized as the originator of the American Royal, a livestock show, horse show, rodeo, and barbecue competition held each year in September – November at various sites in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
“Horse Power: Tom Bass’ American Story” will run from Sept. 11 to Oct. 6 at The Coterie Theatre inside Crown Center. The production, directed by Teresa Leggard, is intended for all ages (9 and up) and features puppetry by What If Puppets. It’s written by playwright and public radio producer Michelle Tyrene Johnson.
The play intertwines Bass’ historical journey with a contemporary narrative. It follows Natalia “Nate” Edmonds, a Black teenager grappling with modern-day racism while finding inspiration in Bass’ legacy.
The production is a collaboration between The Coterie and the American Royal. The Royal celebrates its 125th anniversary this year, and Bass put on what he first horse show that would evolve into the American Royal Horse Show.
Who Is Tom Bass?
Born into slavery in 1859 in Boone County, MO, Tom Bass rose to become one of the most celebrated horsemen of his time. Despite the racial barriers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Bass gained international recognition for his exceptional horse training skills.
Bass’ contributions to equestrian sports were groundbreaking. His innovative “Bass Bit,” designed to protect horses’ mouths during training, is still widely used today, and Bass refused to patent it.
Throughout his career, Bass trained horses for notable figures, including Buffalo Bill Cody and Will Rogers. He performed for five U.S. presidents and was invited to showcase his skills for Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee in London, though he declined due to a fear of ocean travel. Bass also performed and represented Missouri at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.
Despite his fame, Bass’ story has often been overlooked in historical accounts. Johnson’s play aims to rectify this, bringing his achievements to the forefront and exploring their relevance to contemporary issues of race and equality.
Special Performance with Panel Discussion
The Sept. 22, 2 p.m. performance of “Horse Power” will feature a panel discussion after the show. The Coterie invites the community of Black equestrians, cowboys, cowgirls, and organizations for the discussion. The Nia Project is organizing a group to attend and participate; if you’d like to join, email hello@theniaprojectkc.org with HORSE POWER in the subject line and a head count to get group rate tickets.
Horse Power: Tom Bass’ American Story
Sept. 11 to Oct. 6
The Coterie Theatre inside Crown Center
2450 Grand Blvd – Suite 144, KCMOTickets $13 to $17 at the box office by phone (816) 474-6552 or online bit.ly/HorsePowerTix
