FIRE IN A DARK HOUSE is a timely and poignant new drama about star-crossed young lovers whose families and community are thrown into turmoil as anti-immigrant fervor sweeps the nation during World War I.
Rose, a passionate young woman and aspiring writer, falls for James, son of the conservative newspaper publisher and aspiring politician who is waging a fierce propaganda campaign against...
FIRE IN A DARK HOUSE is a timely and poignant new drama about star-crossed young lovers whose families and community are thrown into turmoil as anti-immigrant fervor sweeps the nation during World War I.
Rose, a passionate young woman and aspiring writer, falls for James, son of the conservative newspaper publisher and aspiring politician who is waging a fierce propaganda campaign against immigrants, including Rose's father, Carl. Drawing inspiration from true and tragic events, FIRE explores issues that resonate powerfully today: immigration, women's rights, propaganda, nationalism, and patriotism.
FIRE IN A DARK HOUSE draws on historical research that has uncovered forgotten hate crimes committed against immigrants during World War I, fueled by inflammatory propaganda created in the White House and endorsed by Congress.
Seven actors - two men in their 40s-50s; three young women that can play teens-20s; two young men that can play 18 (draft age).
Carl Roebling
40s, Array,
Male
Farmer, widower, German immigrant. Vigorous in his work; thoughtful and careful in his words and deeds. A leader in his church and his community, Carl opposes the war (WWI).
Can be played by:
Age:
40s, 50s
Race/Ethnicity:
White
Gender:
Male
Rose Roebling
17-18, Array,
Female
Carl’s daughter. Born in Germany, raised in America. Rose is a dreamy, impatient romantic, an aspiring writer who rebels against her practical, loyal, hard-working immigrant family.
Can be played by:
Age:
Teens, 20s
Race/Ethnicity:
White
Gender:
Female
Mary Roebling
20s, Array,
Female
Carl’s daughter, born in Germany. Smart, stubborn, and self-righteous, Mary is a secret suffragette who doesn’t suffer fools gladly -- and that includes anyone who disagrees with her political views.
Can be played by:
Age:
20s
Race/Ethnicity:
White
Gender:
Female
Henry Roebling
18-20, Array,
Male
Carl’s only son. Henry was born in Germany but is all-American in looks and speech. In wartime, his loyalty to his country can be in conflict with his loyalty to his family.
Can be played by:
Age:
Teens, 20s
Race/Ethnicity:
White
Gender:
Male
Wilhelmina “Willie” Roebling
13-14, Array,
Any (but probably Female)
Carl’s youngest child, born in America. Consumed by dark fantasies, obsessed with fire, possibly has a learning disorder, Willie is always in motion and frequently in trouble.
Can be played by:
Age:
Child, Teens
Race/Ethnicity:
White
Gender:
Any gender
Simon Lick
40s-50s,
White
,
Male
Conservative newspaper publisher, nationalist, self-professed patriot. The town’s most prominent businessman, with powerful connections in local and state government.
Can be played by:
Age:
40s, 50s
Race/Ethnicity:
White
Gender:
Male
James Lick
17-19,
White
,
Male
Simon’s son is also Rose’s lover -- to the dismay of both of their fathers. A lover of literature and an aspiring writer with ideas and ambitions that put him at odds with his father.
Can be played by:
Age:
Teens, 20s
Race/Ethnicity:
White
Gender:
Male
Development History
Reading
,
Paramount Hudson Valley Arts at Paramount Hudson Valley Arts