POUGHKEEPSIE- “Emilie: La Marquise Du Châtelet Defends Her Life Tonight” will be presented by Rhinebeck Theatre Society on April 28, 29, 30 and May 6, and 7 at Oakwood Friends School, located at 22 Spackenkill Rd, Poughkeepsie.
Friday and Saturday performances are at 8:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. for the April 30th Sunday matinee. Tickets are $15 for students and seniors and $20 for the general public, and may be purchased online at rhinebecktheatresociety.org. Friday, April 28th is Pay What You Will at the door.
If you have never heard of the 18th century French philosopher Émilie du Châtelet, count her among many underrecognized women in human history. But to know that she had a passionate affair with Voltaire, who placed her mind on par with Newton, and understand how her discoveries paved the way to Einstein’s theory of relativity, may help to contextualize a singular genius among the French aristocratic elite.
Such is the premise of award-winning playwright Lauren Gunderson’s contemporary piece, “Emilie: La Marquise Du Châtelet Defends Her Life Tonight.” In it, Emilie has materialized mysteriously in front of a modern audience. Without questioning her circumstances, she launches into a reflection of her life and work, framing a debate between love and philosophy that at once seems both worldly and painfully personal. The play is witty and smart, and will leave audiences with fodder for conversation long after the lights go down.
Local actress Madison Anthony takes on the role of Émilie with focus and insight. She is joined by Elwin Cuevas playing the role of Voltaire. Veteran performers Chris Luongo, Regina Perrone, Linda Roper, and Maya Schubert round out the cast, portraying a host of different characters with whom Emilie had a variety of relationships throughout her life.
Director Joe Eriole describes the play as a “dreamscape crafted by a gifted playwright, which invites the audience into the mind of a woman of towering intellect.”
“The play was chosen in the context of two seasons of Rhinebeck Theatre Society’s commitment to highlighting female characters in positive ways. The hope,” says Eriole, “is that every audience member leaves the theater wanting to know as much as they can about Emilie DuChatelet.”
