One of the most powerful feminist plays comes to Princeton NJ this fall. Gloria: A Life will be performed at the McCarter Theatre Center from September 6 –October 6, 2019. It is a fascinating performance you don’t want to miss. Directed by Diane Paulus and starring Academy Award-nominee Mary McDonnell, this portrayal of Gloria Steinem will challenge and inspire you to embrace your own story.
Telling Gloria’s Story
Gloria Steinem is a reporter, writer, and feminist theorist who became famous in the 1960s and 70s for her consciousness-raising work. For over 50 years, her voice has challenged women to seek representation. The first act of the play recounts her life. It portrays the prejudice she faced and her co-founding of the magazine Ms.
The second act is even more engaging, as audience members are invited to come up on stage and share their responses and experiences. At each performance, a number of women tell their personal stories of difficulty and perseverance. This performance is more than a play, bringing an intimate theatre-in-the-round setting and audience interaction to bear, connecting and celebrating the human experience.
Reviews for Gloria: A Life
Reviews of the play have praised its compassionate account of Steinem’s trailblazing. The play also engagingly depicts second-wave feminism. Critics and audience members have found the 20-minute talking circle at the end refreshing and encouraging.
Making a Weekend of It
Seeing the play at the McCarter Theatre Center is a special treat, as the theatre is led by the play’s original writer, Emily Mann. The McCarter Theatre Center, one of the most active cultural centers in the nation, is located on the beautiful campus of Princeton University, only a couple minutes south of downtown Princeton.
If you’re planning on heading to Princeton for the play, there are a number of other attractions to make a weekend getaway out of your trip. Downtown Princeton is small enough to travel by foot, with most dining and entertainment options within a 15-minute walk.
Attractions in Princeton
Princeton is known for its vibrant arts scene, and you can experience this yourself at one of its excellent museums. One of the most notable is the Princeton University Art Museum which has two special exhibits in September and October. The museum is also known for its extensive collection of Asian art.
While you’re on the campus, take a quick tour to view its architecture, especially its Gothic chapel. Other nearby attractions include Albert Einstein’s house on 112 Mercer Street and the Princeton Battle Monument. Princeton’s main road, Nassau Street, is also known for its continental architecture and charming Palmer Square.
Dining and Accommodation
There are a number of restaurants only a 10-minute walk from the McCarter Theatre. If you love Mediterranean cuisine, try the Mediterranean Restaurant and Bar. Alternatively, check out Elements, an upscale restaurant with New American cuisine.
Nearby hotels in Princeton NJ include the Hyatt Regency Princeton,which is located south of the university. The hotel is near Princeton Junction Train Station for easy access to destinations all over the area. It offers a number of amenities, including a glass-enclosed heated pool and a gym. The Nassau Inn is a charming, historic hotel in the heart of Princeton. It marries historical appeal with modern comforts. Serving Princeton for over 250 years, it’s hosted such historical figure as Paul Revere and Thomas Paine over the course of its operation.
Princeton’s scenic attractions and fine dining will enhance the experience of visiting Princeton to see Gloria: A Life. Since the play is running for two weekends and several weekdays, you have some flexibility to find the best time for your day out.
