Emilie: La Marquise Du Châtelet Defends Her Life Tonight

By Lauren Gunderson
Directed by Matthew Korda
Performed at the Bartell Theatre on the Drury stage

This is a love story. This is a true(ish) story. An affair of both the heart and mind. Emilie herself will take us on a tour of her life that spanned the first half of the 18th century, but her accomplishments live on today in many of the scientific theories and understandings we take for granted. Her life and loves are well documented, but Gunderson, through the character of Emilie, takes us into the realm of imagination and philosophy with this retrospective look at what Emilie’s life meant to Emilie. As she explores and delves deeply into her own psyche, Emilie weighs her choices and her accomplishments in an attempt to determine her own worth. Gunderson cleverly weaves science and emotion together with humor, drama, and history to mirror life itself with all its pain and joy.

For biographies and more details, check out our Program.

Cast
Emilie – Rebecca Raether
Voltaire – Tom Kastle
Soubrette – Mikayla Mrochek
Madame – Patty Whitely
Gentleman – Bryan Royston 

Emilie will be performed on the Drury Stage with Reserved Admission seating.

Approx. Run-Time: 1 hr & 40 mins (including 1 intermission)

All audience members age 12+ must show proof of Covid-19 vaccination (either a physical CDC vaccination card or a photo of it on your smartphone) or have a negative test within 48 hours of showtime. You will also be asked to wear a face mask at all times unless you are actively eating or drinking.