WISCONSIN PREMIERE
The First Lady of Television
April 8-25, 2027
WRITTEN BY James Sherman
DIRECTED BY Jen Uphoff Gray
“A period piece embedded with a razor’s edge of contemporary urgency and spliced through with comedy…
– Chicago Sun-Times
In 1950, Gertrude Berg was a household name: writer, producer, and star of “The Goldbergs,” America’s first family sitcom. But when her co-star was accused of Communism, she faced an impossible choice: protect him and risk everything, or bow to the demands of sponsors and censors.
This vibrant new play brings a trailblazing entertainer to life in a story of art, integrity, and the political pressures that shaped (and still shape) American entertainment.
A drama about loyalty. A comedy about television. A story as relevant now as it was then.
Overture Center
for the Arts
About the show
Runtime:
TBD
Performance Dates:
April 8-25, 2027
Age Recommendations:
Ages 13+
Accessibility
We strive to make our performances available to the entire community. We’re proud to be a resident company at Overture Center, which provides practical accessibility for a variety of needs.
Cast
Emily Glick
Gertrude BergCasey Hoekstra
Walter HartMadison Uphoff
Arlene McQuadeNicky Chier
Larry RobinsonJonathan West
Phillip LoebChris Flieller
Eli MintzCreative Team
Jen Uphoff Gray
DirectorSteve Barnes
Scenic DesignerGreg Hofmann
Lighting DesignerScott Rött
Costume DesignerJoe Cerqua
Sound Designer/ComposerJolie Sarajian
Props DirectorAbbi Hess
Stage ManagerKenzie Smith
Assistant Stage ManagerShannon Heibler
Assistant DirectorJennifer Wang
DramaturgAaron Sewell
Technical DirectorShow Sponsors
