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An original, one-woman show about the life
of Mary Todd Lincoln, The First Lady They Called Crazy |
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| Janina Birtolo continues her exploration of the lives of fascinating historical women with IN THE SHADOW OF GLORY, an original one-woman play about Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of Abraham Lincoln and a woman who challenged society’s view of how a female ought to behave. As the wife of one of the best known and loved Presidents in American history, Mary was thrust into the spotlight – a position that suited her view of herself. Yet her view was not shared by many of her contemporaries. Her Kentucky background and her family’s support of the Confederacy made her loyalties suspect to many – but an even harsher opinion developed in her years as Lincoln’s widow. Was Mary really crazy as charged by her son Robert? Viewed with a 21st century eye, she seems more misunderstood than a lunatic. Three of her four sons, as well as her husband, preceded her in death, tragedies that haunted her throughout her life. Her outspokenness and refusal to conform to society’s stringent rules, her need for attention and devotion, and even her misunderstood physical ailments all conspired to create a person so out of the mainstream that those in the 19th century judged her insane. Mary Todd Lincoln’s life was a compelling one that continues to fascinate the public. Through her extensive research, Birtolo has crafted an all too human story that highlights Mary’s achievements and stumbles – and serves as a cautionary tale about judgments based on pre-conceived notions. Fully costumed, IN THE SHADOW OF GLORY is a lesson in history, humanity and the hard road traveled by those seen as different. The program runs about one hour and requires little space. Only a chair and a small table are needed; all other props are supplied. Post-performance question/answer sessions can also be arranged. For more information, references and/or to arrange a performance, contact Birtolo at (239) 592-1137. |
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| Back to One-Woman Shows | |||||||||||||
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