WALDOBORO, ME — The Waldo Theatre announces a benefit performance of The Belle of Amherst, by William Luce, on Saturday evening, May 25, at 7:30 p.m.

The play draws on Emily Dickinson’s poems and letters to create a portrayal of the life and spirit of the great American poet. Set in her home in Amherst, Massachusetts, the play depicts her experiences over many years, focusing on her encounters with significant people in her life, and expressing both the agony of her seclusion with bright, moments of joy.

This one-night-only performance is a fundraiser for The Waldo Theatre, and admission is pay-what-you-can. Suggested donation is $10 - $25, and everyone is welcome.

Set in her home in Amherst, Massachusetts, the play utilizes her poems, diaries, and letters to recreate her encounters with important individuals, all of whom are portrayed by professional actor and theatre educator Kathleen Mulligan. A proud member of Actors’ Equity for 35 years, Mulligan has performed across the U.S., and has brought The Belle of Amherst to Lebanon, across northern India and Laos as a Fulbright scholar. She is a Professor of Voice and Speech in the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance at Ithaca College.

“As Dickinson’s editor did, Mulligan has ties to the Midcoast, making this a perfect pairing of artists and locales,” said The Waldo, in a news release.

This one woman tour-de-force won a Tony Award in 1976 (for Best Actress Julie Harris), as well as a Drama Desk award for Unique Theatrical Experience.

Join The Waldo after the show for a conversation with Kathleen and Dickinson scholar Ivy Schweitzer, moderated by Waldo Board Member Michael Amico.

Why are we so fascinated by her life as much as her poetry? How did knowledge of Dickinson’s real life inform Mulligan’s preparation for the role? How was the play received in the middle and far east? What aspects of the story are imaginatively embellished and why? What else have we learned about Dickinson since the play was written? These and other questions will be discussed.

Tickets to this and many other shows are available via The Waldo Theatre’s website, www.thewaldotheatre.org.

About The Waldo

The Waldo Theatre uses the power of the arts to entertain, engage, and celebrate community in Midcoast Maine all year long. Through accessible programming that includes live music, theatre, comedy, and film, and activities like youth arts education and master classes by professional artists, The Waldo seeks to enhance the quality of life for all the region’s residents, regardless of means. As stewards of a recently restored historic landmark approaching its 90th birthday, The Waldo’s board, staff, and volunteers believe in the transformative power of the arts to create a thriving, sustainable non-profit community organization.