In 1926, Johnson's play "Blue Blood" won honorable mention in the "" drama contest. Her play "Plumes" also won in the same competition in 1927. "Plumes" is a folk drama that relates the dilemma of Charity, the main character, whose baby daughter is dying. She has saved up money for the doctor, but also she and her confidante - Tilde - don't believe the medical care would be successful. She has in mind an extravagant funeral for her daughter instead - with plumes, , and other fancy trimmings. Before Charity makes a decision, her daughter dies. "Plumes" was produced by the Harlem Experimental Theatre between 1928 and 1931.