THE HEIRESS

by Ruth Ann and August Goetz
Directed by Robert FitzGerald

Suggested by Henry James' novel, Washington Square. This play, produced twice on Broadway, has proven an enormous success.

"THE HEIRESS has a wealth of treasures to bestow; it would be foolish to abstain from one's share in them." — NY Daily News

"If you would like to see a first-rate production of the kind of comparatively small, well-made play that Broadway once trafficked in, you won't want to miss it." —New York Times

"The dialogue...alternately pierces the mind with its wit and shakes up the emotions with its brutality."  — New York Times

“You embroider neatly..." 

Coming from a father, the words seem a kind compliment.  If only…

Set in the drawing room of an affluent residential square in New York City during the 1850’s, where an embroidery screen is displayed in prominent position, The Heiress is a Tony award winning drama by Ruth Ann and Augustus Goetz.  It immerses us in the life of Catherine Sloper, a commonplace young woman who is lacking in both beauty and social grace.  Unexpectedly, she meets and is wooed by an attractive young man, Morris Townsend, and ultimately falls desperately in love.

Dr. Austin Sloper, Catherine’s sternly protective father, carries a deep bitterness in his heart due to the loss of his wife during childbirth. Harboring repressed resentment and dislike for his daughter because of this tragedy, he believes that Morris Townsend is as drawn to Catherine's money—and to everything it represents—as much as he is to her. 

We witness Catherine’s anguish, and feel her pain as she is torn between the father who has dominated her life since birth, and the promise of a bright future with a man she dared not dream could be hers. Add to this mix a foolish, meddlesome aunt, other assorted friends and relatives and you have a story of love, loss, hope, greed and betrayal.

Directed by Robert FitzGerald, the cast of The Heiress includes: Darwin Miller as Dr. Austin Sloper; Celeste Coburn as Catherine Sloper; Deanna Lalich as Mrs. Lavinia Penniman; Rana Haddad as Mrs. Elizabeth Almond; Miranda Plescher as Marian Almond; Arik Yates as Arthur Townsend; David McCullars as Morris Townsend; Kate Conroy as Maria, the maid; and Rebecca Smootz as Mrs. Montgomery.

The costume designer, an important part of any period play, is Bert Flanagan of costumed occassions in San Marcos.  Pennye Graves, an experienced interior designer, is the set decorator, while Bill Peeler, a master lighting designer, will add all of the wonderful nuances of light and shadow in a nineteenth century home.

The show runs from February 18 – March 13.  Evening performances are Friday and Saturday night at 8 p.m., Sunday matinees are at 2:30 p.m.  Tickets are $18 each and may be purchased at any time on-line at www.wimberleyplayers.org.  The box office opens on Wednesday, February 14. 

The Box Office is open prior to each performance weekend during the following days and hours: Wednesday & Thursday, 2 - 5 p.m., Fridays 2 - 6 p.m. Call 847-0575.