Affecting Expression by Eliana Cohen-Orth

It’s 1852, and renowned crossdressing Shakespearean actress Charlotte Cushman is retiring from the stage, preparing to spend time in Rome with her longterm partner, writer Matilda Hays. Joining their party is a young, eccentric sculptor named Harriet Hosmer, as well as Charlotte’s enigmatic stage persona—seen only by her. In this queer tragicomedy inspired by real historical figures, the women navigate their...
It’s 1852, and renowned crossdressing Shakespearean actress Charlotte Cushman is retiring from the stage, preparing to spend time in Rome with her longterm partner, writer Matilda Hays. Joining their party is a young, eccentric sculptor named Harriet Hosmer, as well as Charlotte’s enigmatic stage persona—seen only by her. In this queer tragicomedy inspired by real historical figures, the women navigate their intersecting artistic paths and the complexities of their relationships with each other, art, and legacy, within the increasingly unreliable walls of their home.
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Affecting Expression

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  • Kate Busselle:
    12 May. 2023
    “ Another delightful play about American actress Charlotte Cushman…this time, later in her career and when things fall apart with her and Matilda Hays. The play is beautifully constructed and has wonderful moments of magic towards the end of the play that demands the use of the stage. A great option for universities and colleges to produce! ”

Characters:
Charlotte Cushman—Age 36. American actress. Used to being in the spotlight, figuratively and literally.
Matilda Hays—Age 30. English writer. Doesn’t say everything on her mind.
Hatty Hosmer—Age 22. American sculptor. Says everything on her mind.
Dramatis Personae—Ageless. Genderless. Dramatic, in every sense of the word.

Production History

Awards

Winner
,
Alan S. Downer Prize
,
Princeton University
,
2021