The Headliners

by Jeffrey Neuman

In August 1908, one hundred and seven years before the legalization of same-sex unions, two of the biggest stars in America stepped onto the stage of the Alhambra Theatre in New York City and thumbed their noses at gender roles, respectability, and the institution of marriage. Was it a performance? Was it a publicity stunt? Or, was it something much more personal for the two stars involved? The Headliners, a...

In August 1908, one hundred and seven years before the legalization of same-sex unions, two of the biggest stars in America stepped onto the stage of the Alhambra Theatre in New York City and thumbed their noses at gender roles, respectability, and the institution of marriage. Was it a performance? Was it a publicity stunt? Or, was it something much more personal for the two stars involved? The Headliners, a play with music, asks us to consider the price of fame and the cost of celebrity as it intersects with gender and sexuality.

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The Headliners

Recommended by

  • Stephen Kaplan: The Headliners by Jeffrey Neuman
    “

    A fascinating look into a story that most are unfamiliar with and, though it's set over a hundred years ago, feels completely contemporary and relevant. With deeply dimensional characters and a story that surprises and captivates, Neuman has crafted a dream play for actors to bite into and an engaging and heartbreaking tale. This story needs to be told and audiences will find themselves riveted and completely invested.

    A fascinating look into a story that most are unfamiliar with and, though it's set over a hundred years ago, feels completely contemporary and relevant. With deeply dimensional characters and a story that surprises and captivates, Neuman has crafted a dream play for actors to bite into and an engaging and heartbreaking tale. This story needs to be told and audiences will find themselves riveted and completely invested.

    ”

Character Information

  • Stage Manager
    Two different stage managers at two different theaters, though they can be played by the same actor.
    Can be played by:
    • Actor Gender Identity
      Male
  • Eva Tanguay
    “The Queen of Vaudeville” also known as “The I Don’t Care Girl.” A force of nature, whose personality is just as untamed as her uncontrolled, uncontrollable head of hair.
    Early 30’s
    Can be played by:
    • Actor Gender Identity
      Female
  • Julian Eltinge
    "Eltinge, The American Star.” An artiste. A consummate craftsman onstage who lives a life of learned cautiousness off.
    Late 20's
    Can be played by:
    • Actor Gender Identity
      Male

Development History

  • Reading, Cherry Creek Theatre, 2021
  • Residency, Denver Center for the Performing Arts, 2020, 2020

Awards

  • Woodward/Newman Award
    Bloomington Playwrights Project
    Finalist
    2022
  • O'Neill National Play Conference
    Finalist
    2021
  • Local Lab New Play Festival
    Local Theatre Company
    Semi-Finalist
    2020