Overview
Synopsis
While vacationing with her family at the beautiful Grand Isle, Edna Pontellier meets the flirtatious and charming Robert Lebrun. She feels a fluttering and stirring of passion … but there is an insurmountable obstacle: It is 1899, and Edna is a married woman. How can she pursue this romance? More importantly, how can she discover and keep her own independence from the morally repressive Victorian society?
Kate Chopin’s novel The Awakening created a stir with its first publication in 1899, boldly narrating the stirrings of female passion and sensuality. This stage adaptation by Max Bush honors the spirit of Chopin’s work through the depictions of Edna and the women around her: idealized wife and mother Adele, independent and defiant Reisz, flirtatious and free Mariequeta. At the center of it all is Robert, the man responsible for inspiring Edna’s awakening but who refuses a life with her in the face of moral judgment. Ultimately, Edna makes a tragic choice that profoundly engages in the ethical question of women’s role in society.
Show Information
Context
Plot
Characters
| Name | Part Size | Gender | Vocal Part |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Lead |
Female |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Female |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Female |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Female |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Female |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Non-singer |
Songs
A song with an asterisk (*) before the title indicates a dance number; a character listed in a song with an asterisk (*) by the character's name indicates that the character exclusively serves as a dancer in this song, which is sung by other characters.
Monologues
Scenes
Key Terms
An adaptation is a reworking of a story from one medium or cultural context into another, such as turning a novel into a play or updating a classic play’s setting. Adaptations often reinterpret themes, characters, and style for new audiences. They can range from faithful recreations to bold reimaginings.
Feminist theatre is a form of drama that highlights women’s experiences, challenges patriarchal structures, and advocates for gender equality on stage. It often portrays strong, independent female characters and critiques the limitations historically placed on women in society and theatre. Productions in this genre aim to empower audiences and inspire social change through performance.
Relating to the period of Queen Victoria’s reign (1837–1901), which influenced theatrical style, costume, and themes.
Videos
Sorry! We do not currently have videos for this guide.
Quizzes
Themes, Symbols & Motifs
Sorry! We do not currently have learning modules for this guide.
Quote Analysis
Sorry! We do not currently have learning modules for this guide.
Guide Written By:
Cindi Calhoun
Theatre teacher, director, writer, and seamstress