19 & Me-
Have you ever had a dream you followed for years, sometimes thinking the “climb was far too steep” and that too many forces aligned against you? Other times, sensing that it seemed achingly within reach if only a few things fell your way? If you have, welcome to one of humanity’s most noble endeavors: reaching for betterment, despite the odds.
The nascent Women’s movement in the early to mid-1800’s had overwhelming obstacles in its path. Most women were aware of their plight-- having little or no say in things-- but personally feeling helpless to enact any change. Indeed, it took collective effort, a nurturing of a groundswell movement before the horizon could even begin to offer an alternative.
In this play Elizabeth Cady Stanton, one of the first well-known leaders of women’s rights in American, and her band of courageous followers begin to force open the doors of oppression. Their Sentiments of Rights at the 1848 Seneca Falls Convention, the first conference organized with the purpose of discussing women’s rights, testified to the inequities and demanded a women’s right to vote! How remarkable these women were, how strong. Both qualities were needed given the fervent backlash from the male dominated society at large. Still, once begun, our protagonists never looked back.
“Lu,” an engaging, wide-eyed teller of this excruciating but fulfilling journey, is the one-person performer in this one act play. Her family, especially the beloved grandmother and Lu, shadow the power of this movement. They grow into their beliefs and agonize with the uncertainty, as we meet and learn about key suffragette leaders from Susan B. Anthony and her Stanton to the insistent rallyers who sought to take the 19th Amendment “over the line” in the early 1900s. And, though the subject is serious, comedy finds its moments.
Her connection with Alice Paul and Lucy Burns takes her on a harrowing ride, through the Epidemic of 1918 and into intense unknowns as she participates in trying to convince Tennessee legislators to vote for the 19th in, what was- felt- to- be, its last desperate chance for ratification. Even Lu’s baby daughter reaching…. reaching and crying out with insistence, could make a difference.
Many will find it hard to believe that the final passage of the 19th amendment was as startling in its drama as it was. Lu lets it play out, witnessing its heart wrenching moments of anxiety and final glory. Can even the boldest dreams be realized? Yes.
Let the red carnations fly!
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19 & Me is a production that swings into the arms of dedicated women and the remarkable movement that fought so valiantly for rights. There are ladies who brought their resolute power and commitment to this uphill climb. Too many today, though, are unaware of all that was done to gain these important rights for women. This play, from the first Women’s convention in Seneca Falls (1848) to the near heart-stopping passage of the 19th amendment in 1920, opens the eyes of the viewers in a way few books can.
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Although the production covers many decades, the setting is simple and does not change during the presentation. Rather, there are significant props and a backdrop PowerPoint being used.
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This is a one-character play. The character’s name is “Lu.” She is both the narrator and, at times, the participant. This woman could be as young as a teen or as old as someone in their 50s. Ideally, it would be someone closer to her mid-thirties. This performer, obviously, is critical in an ability to show the poignancy, importance, and humor as the movement evolved. For someone willing to commit to the lines, it could be an ideal role.
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Costuming is based on the early 20th century fashions
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The play is estimated to last for 50 minutes. No intermission breaks.
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One special need is the use of a screen in backdrop with someone to strategically operate the PowerPoint.