The Insanity of Mary Girard: Fringe & Extended Run at Allens Lane

The Insanity of Mary Girard by Lanie Robertson
It is 1790, and Mary Girard, wife of prolific Philadelphia philanthropist Stephen Girard, has awoke to find herself committed to the mental asylum of The Pennsylvania Hospital. How did she get here? How long must she stay? Why has her husband not come to have her released? Is it all a mistake, or is she truly insane?

Sarah Heddins plays Mary Girard, in this immersive, thought provoking, and fascinating work of historical fiction about the roles men and women were expected to play in early American society, and just what can happen when you don’t live up to the expectations of your station. The play centers primarily on Mary’s time in the Pennsylvania Hospital, as told by her and a “greek chorus” of inmates, who help her see clearly the path that lead her to be placed in there with them. This story is based on a letter Stephen Girard wrote his brother in 1787 where he lamented about “having been so foolish as to marry this unfortunate vixen ... I treat her properly but at the same time I despise her as much as it is possible to despise anyone ... I hate her like the devil and note with pleasure that this feeling increases from day to day." A powerhouse of actors in this ensemble cast bring the story to life as it is presented in the round, in an intimate theater space. Join us in the basement of the Pennsylvania Hospital as we learn more about Mary and those closest to her, and what led to the tragic fate of Mrs. Stephen Girard as this tale unfolds.

The first four performances (September 19-22) are part of the 2019 Philadelphia Fringe Festival. Six additional performances follow on September 27-October 6th. You won’t want to miss it! Tickets ON SALE now at https://fringearts.com/event/the-insanity-of-mary-girard/ for the Fringe performances (Sept 19-22) and online for the extended run (Sept 27- Oct 6th- Fri-Sun) at www.allenslane.org

About Allens Lane Theater:
For over 63 years, Allens Lane Theater has produced purposeful, challenging, and unique theater experiences centered around contemporary human issues which reflect the diversity and complexity of our community. Our lineup presents the best in contemporary theater in a unique cabaret atmosphere. Our patrons enjoy an extended time in the theater prior to each performance to enjoy the company of their neighbors and fellow theater patrons, while they enjoy BYOB food and drink.

Performance Schedule:
Philadelphia Fringe Festival Dates
September *19, 20, 21,22
Regular Run
September 27, 28, 29 and October 4, 5, 6

Showtimes:
*Special Thursday September 19th Fringe Performance at 8pm
Fridays and Saturdays, 8pm
Sundays, 2pm

Runtime: 1 hour 20 min no intermission

Location: Allens Lane Theater, 601 W Allens Lane, Philadelphia PA 19119

Ticket Information: www.allenslane.org
Fringe Festival Member Discounts (15% off regular ticket price ($25) purchased through Fringe Box Office or online at https://fringearts.com/event/the-insanity-of-mary-girard/) - Fringe Student Discount Tickets ($5 off) and Fringe Artist Rush $5 Tickets are applicable for Sept 19-22 only.

Regular Run Pricing:
$25 in advance (online) $30 at the door
$20 Sunday Senior and Student Special (with ID) in Advance (Online)
$25 Sunday Senior and Student Special (with ID) at the door
$20 Groups of 10+
$10 Industry Rush Tickets for Performing Artists. Use CODE Word: INDUSTRY at the door, NOT available online in advance.

Credits:
The Insanity of Mary Girard by Lanie Robertson
Directed by Mariangela Saavedra
Starring: Neena Boyle, Jim Broyles, Sarah Heddins, Jessica McDonald, Willam McHattie, Teresa Nutter, Sarah Palmatory, Browning Sterner, Sean Vermeire