Did William Shakespeare have a lover who made him a better writer … someone who was a brilliant thinker and writer in her own right but also edgy and challenging in all the best ways? As far as history is concerned, the answer is “maybe,” but for “The Dark Lady,” the answer is a resounding “hell yes!”
Currently playing at The Bravo Theatre, “The Dark Lady” by Jessica B. Hill examines the woman who may have been Shakespeare’s inspiration for the Dark Lady sonnets. Described as having dun-colored skin and wiry black hair, the opposite of the era’s conventional beauty standards, the woman has long been debated as Shakespeare’s muse. Playwright Jessica B. Hill introduces us to Emilia Bassano (Debra Bowers), a likely candidate for this role.
We watch Emilia’s first meeting with Will Shakespeare (Rob Ferron), where she gives him her brash and unwelcome opinion that he does not write convincing female characters. Will is fascinated by Emilia but bristles at her criticism. Emilia urges him to write real women, women like herself who have their own ideas, desires, and dreams. Emilia herself is the daughter of Jewish court musicians, a heritage that puts her on the fringes of society. Yet, she writes and she gives Will detailed feedback on his writing.
Bravo’s staging of this work is lovely, with a sparse but interesting set.
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