THE STORY

Born into slavery in America, Rose Fortune arrives in Nova Scotia as a child, carried north by a promise of freedom that proves far more complicated than the word itself. From the Annapolis Royal waterfront, she begins building a life on her own terms — first with a borrowed wheelbarrow, then with a business, a family, and a place in a community that does not always welcome her.

By ninety, Rose has become a fixture on the waterfront — entrepreneur, protector and the formidable “Officer Rose,” keeping order on the pier with little more than a walking stick, an iron will and the authority she has earned over a lifetime.

ROSE FORTUNE — A Free Person of Character tells her extraordinary story through Rose herself. One actress portrays Rose across a lifetime, along with the people who shaped her journey — her parents, Mac, Jonah, Isabella and others — transforming a single stage into a deeply personal story of slavery, freedom, love, loss, faith and self-determination.

Born into slavery.
Destined to command her own life.

ABOUT THE PLAY

A Full-Length Solo Play
Written by George Cameron Grant
Adapted from his full-length play FORTUNE

Inspired by the life of American-born slave and Canadian Black Loyalist Rose Fortune.

All characters are portrayed by a single actress

Running time: Approx. 80 mins.