Southampton Art Center (SAC) is collaborating with producer Josh Gladstone in presenting a staged reading of “Dear Elizabeth” by Pulitzer Prize-nominated playwright Sara Ruhl. The reading, scheduled for July 2, at 7 p.m., will star the celebrated talents of Academy Award-winner Mercedes Ruehl, Emmy-nominee Harris Yulin and Julia Motyka.
“Dear Elizabeth” explores the intricacies of the correspondence between eminent 20th-century poets Elizabeth Bishop and Robert Lowell. Drawing on their expansive collection of letters, “Reading Words in Air: The Complete Correspondence Between Elizabeth Bishop and Robert Lowell,” Ruhl’s play is a nuanced portrayal of their relationship, covering their first meeting, an abbreviated affair, and the various struggles they navigated in their personal lives.
“We are thrilled to have actors of such high caliber bringing this profound piece to life,” said SAC executive director, Christina Mossaides Strassfield. “Mercedes Ruehl, Harris Yulin, and Julia Motyka bring a depth of talent and sensitivity that will undoubtedly illuminate the subtleties of Bishop and Lowell’s relationship.”
“Dear Elizabeth” originally premiered at the Yale Repertory Theatre in New Haven, in November 2012 under the direction of Les Waters. Now, under the guidance of SAC and Josh Gladstone are proud to present this compelling story to the Southampton community.
“I am absolutely delighted to have the opportunity to produce ‘Dear Elizabeth’ at Southampton Arts Center. It’s a remarkable play that captures the beauty and complexity of human connection through the eloquence of Elizabeth Bishop and Robert Lowell’s correspondence,” said Gladstone. “I couldn’t be more thrilled to share this heartfelt journey with the audience. Together, we will embark on an exploration of love, art, and the power of words, creating an experience that will resonate long after the final curtain falls.”
Sarah Ruhl’s plays include “In the Next Room, or the Vibrator Play,” “The Clean House,” “Passion Play,” and more. She is a two-time Pulitzer prize finalist and a Tony award nominee. Her plays have been produced on and off Broadway, around the country, and internationally, where they have been translated into over 15 languages. She teaches at the Yale School of Drama, and she lives in Brooklyn with her family.
Tickets for “Dear Elizabeth” begin at $35 for SAC members at southamptonartscenter.org. Southampton Art Center is at 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton.
Staff Writer on Jun 26, 2023