That Woman – The Monologue Show - Tennessee Playwrights Studio

“That woman.” How many times have we heard stories about “that woman” or “those women” to denote perceived undesirable female figures in history who happened to have sexual encounters with those in power? Focusing on stories buried in the history of one of the most revered presidents, “That Woman” is an absolute must-see of the festival.

Beautifully written by Tennessee Playwrights Studio, directed by Molly Breen, and sublimely acted by Kisha Banister, Molly Breen, Jessie Paxton, Lauren Smith, Brioni Garvin, and Jessica Whitfield, the series of monologues is profoundly moving and speaks not only to the period these women lived through but also to all generations of women who have been pushed to the sidelines of history behind the mighty men who used them. These monologues represent the beautiful spectrum of feminine energies, from a brash burlesque performer to the calculated brain of the First Lady, illuminating unapologetically those who some would simply apply the label of whore, slut, harlot, floozy, and prostitute. This ensemble of women achieves what is rarely accomplished in a series of monologues; they create a cohesive story of the astounding women JFK had the pleasure to have known during his short but illustrative time in the White House, culminating in the most calculated monologue of the entire show.

In historical justice, unfaithful men receive the lightest sentencing while women receive the harshest narratives. “That Woman” magnificently elevates the unsung voices of strong, resilient, and remarkable women whose stories have been grossly forgotten through honest, conversational, and sincere monologues. This production is not one to be missed and is a model for future historically based performances. Brava. Bravissima.