Maternity (play)

Maternity is a dramatic three act play that opened January 6, 1915, at the Princess Theatre on Broadway starring Richard Bennett.[1]

An English language version of Eugène Brieux's French play, Maternité (1904), the work was translated by Benjamin F. Blanchard. The play's book was adapted by Richard Bennett, whose Purpose Play Society produced.

Unlike Damaged Goods, Bennett's previous socially conscious play by Brieux, Maternity was not an artistic or financial success.[2][3] Despite special matinées, which were well patronized in the final week,[4] the production ran for only 21 performances before closing.

Synopsis

Maternity deals with out-of-wedlock birth and the relations of motherhood to society.

Opening night cast

ActorCharacter
Vera de Cordova Josephine
Frances Savage Madeleine
Adrienne Morrison Lucie Brignac
Mai Estelle Catherine Tupin
Richard Bennett Julian Brignac
W. W. Crimmans Dr. Hourtin
W. L. Romaine Fechain
Jane Cooper Annette
Maud Granger Mme. Bernin
Charles Riegal Judge of the Court of Assises
W. L. Romaine Prosecutor
Erville Alderson Council for the Defense
Isabel Winlocke Mme. Thomas
Gertrude Workman Marie Gaubert
W. W. Crimmans Tupin
Vera de Cordova Mme. d'Amergueux
George Ferguson De Forgeau

References

  1. Bordman, Gerald Martin (1995). American theatre: a chronicle of comedy and drama, 1914-1930. Oxford University Press US. p. 18. ISBN 978-0-19-509078-9. Retrieved 15 March 2011.
  2. New York Times, Jan. 7, 1915, "Bennett Gives Us Some More Brieux --- English Translation of "Maternite" Is Produced at the Princess Theatre," p. 13
  3. New York Times, Jan. 10, 1915, "Second Thoughts on First Nights --- A Mild Expression of Doubt as to How Well a Certain Purpose Play Serves Its Purpose," p. 66
  4. New York Times, Jan. 31, 1915, "Matinee of "Maternity" at Princess," p. X 9

External links

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