It seems timely that we are performing Blue Stockings in a week, given the current state of the political world. We began rehearsals in December, after Trump was elected, and he has continued to be a discussion point in many of our rehearsals. I cannot begin to imagine what those revolutionary women would say if they knew that now, over a hundred years later, we would still be fighting against those who believe women are in some way inferior or unequal. As an actor, I am struck every rehearsal during one particular scene where one of the characters asks: “If your whole course, this place, if it’s not recognized – any of it – it’s like no one’ll even know you were here.” It makes me teary when I hear that line spoken, because I immediately feel the enormous responsibility this cast has to tell this particular story.
As players onstage, we must be truthful and bold so that those brave women and men who fought for women’s rights to education won’t be forgotten. Playing Tess, I find myself stuck between what she initially wants – knowledge – and what she discovers when she attending school – love. I think it is a predicament that many men and women find themselves in even today. Each night I am struck by the men and women who fought for what was right. It reminds me of what Margaret Mead said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens to change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Just like in 1896, it is still our responsibility to be brave and change the world for the better. And I hope this show is a tiny step towards that.