I Will Assume Thy Part in Some Disguise: When Romeo was a Woman

Alternative title
When Romeo was a Woman
Synopsis
Podcast from the Folger Shakespeare Library. The actress Charlotte Cushman was a theatrical icon in 19th century America, known to the press by her first name. Her fame was not, however, for conventionally Victorian feminine portrayals. Cushman specialised in playing male roles, principally Romeo and Hamlet, competing on equal terms with leading actors like Edwin Forrest and Edwin Booth. She was not the only actress of her time to attempt these parts, but Cushman’s style was uniquely assertive and athletic. When Queen Victoria saw Cushman as Romeo, she said she couldn’t believe it was a woman playing the part.
Rebecca Sheir, interviews Lisa Merrill, professor in the Department of Performance Studies at Hofstra University and author of When Romeo Was a Woman, about Cushman’s professional and personal life, including her off-stage romantic partnerships with women and her changing public image after death.
Series
Shakespeare Unlimited
Language
English
Country
United States
Medium
Audio
Recording date
2014
Duration
20 mins

Credits

Producer
Richard Paul
Contributor
Lisa Merrill; Rebecca Sheir

Additional Details

Production type
Documentary/Educational/News
Subjects
Drama
Keywords
Shakespeare, William (1564-1616); women; Gender reversal; Cushman, Charlotte (1816-1876)

Notes

Notes
Podcast: http://www.folger.edu/shakespeare-unlimited-episode-13 (accessed 2/2015).

Production Company

Name

R.L. Paul Productions

How to cite this record

Shakespeare, "I Will Assume Thy Part in Some Disguise: When Romeo was a Woman". https://learningonscreen.ac.uk/shakespeare/search/index.php/title/av76498 (Accessed 29 Nov 2024)