Early in 2015, while we were searching for scripts to produce for our 10th Season, it was hard to escape the news that Chicago was bidding for the Obama Presidential Library along with New York and Hawaii. I thought it strange the amount of energy each location was investing into this contest. Not that it wouldn't be prestigious. Not that it wouldn't bring jobs and tourists and such- It's strange to think that one city can claim ownership over a person's legacy. Around that time I came across the script for The Woman Who Amuses Herself- another story which considers the idea of ownership.
This is a play
that speaks about the power of art. We're asking what it means to own art; does it necessitate physical possession or can it be something more subjective, something that's in the heart of each viewer? Great art is a mirror for getting to know oneself to the core and that's the common thread for all of the characters in this show. We get to experience this
introspection not only within the narrative of Peruggia's frayed psyche, but through the lenses of others who also feel a kinship with the mysterious smiling lady. I believe the audience will see something of themselves in these characters. Finding a way to make theatre that connects to the audience and reflects our world is a huge part of what Idle Muse attempts with all of our productions and what makes The Woman Who Amuses Herself the perfect show to conclude our 10th season.
Oh... and don't forget to visit the Obama Presidential Library when it opens in Chicago. After all, it's ours.
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