The Maggie Allesee Department of Theatre and Dance at Wayne State University is set to ignite the stage with "Emilia," Morgan Lloyd Malcolm's rousing call to action, running April 11–19 in the Hilberry Gateway’s STUDIO.  

Discover the untold story of Emilia Bassano Lanier, a trailblazing poet and feminist voice of the Renaissance, in this captivating production. Set in Elizabethan England, "Emilia" follows its title character's journey from obscurity to empowerment as she navigates a male-dominated society.  

Initially commissioned for Shakespeare's Globe in 2018 before transferring to London's West End, "Emilia" is a bold and electrifying reimagining of history. Historians speculate that Emilia Bassano Lanier may have been Shakespeare's "Dark Lady" or even the Bard himself — but this play is not about him. It's about her.  

Directed by Jill Dion, acting professor and director, Wayne State's production embraces Emilia's rebellious spirit. It features a cast consisting of women and nonbinary actors in a subversive, fast-paced, and often riotously funny reclamation of history. This production also features live music, led by a collaboration between music director and BFA senior Rachel Paulin and second-year MFA candidate Sandie Norville. 

In addition, powerful contemporary movement from Movement Coordinator and Professor Cheryl Turski, along with an intimate, immersive scenic design by third-year MFA scenic design candidate Sparrow Matthews, brings the state-of-the-art performance space to life in thrilling new ways. 

“I want this to feel like we're getting away with something," said Dion at the show's first rehearsal. 

Blending historical fiction with contemporary events, "Emilia" smashes through the barriers of time, challenging systemic silencing with biting wit and fiery passion. Malcolm's script splits the trailblazing poet into three distinct versions of herself — each portrayed at different defining moments in her life — allowing the audience to experience her journey in a dynamic and deeply personal way. 

With a satirical lens on culture, class, and gender, "Emilia" draws sharp parallels between the oppression of the past and the challenges still faced today. The play doesn't just tell Emilia's story — it invites audiences to fight alongside her, question who gets to tell history, and join the ensemble's resounding battle cry. Join Wayne State University as it amplifies voices too often ignored and reclaims the stage for those history tried to erase. 

For dates, times, and ticket purchases for "Emilia" and other Hilberry Gateway performances, visit theatreanddance.wayne.edu/onstage or call the box office at (313) 577-2972. Discounts are available for students, seniors, and groups. 

About the College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts 

The College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts is home to today’s aspiring artists, performers, technicians, scholars, dancers, debaters, entrepreneurs, and communication professionals who all represent the college’s legacy of excellence in our respective fields. 

The college serves students majoring in 17 undergraduate programs, 10 graduate programs and three graduate certificates through its departments: the James Pearson Duffy Department of Art, Art History and Design, the Maggie Allesee Department of Theatre and Dance, and the departments of communication and music. 

From debate to dance, jazz to journalism, and fashion design to center stage, our students create captivating performances, inspire artistic and academic excellence, and conduct innovative research on behalf of our Detroit community.