Jewish Museum to Present Sarah Bernhardt Exhibit

The Jewish Museum at 1109 Fifth Avenue will present Sarah Bernhardt: The Art of High Drama, the first major museum exhibit devoted to the legendary French actress, from December 2 through April 2.

The exhibition will include over 250 objects including paintings, sculpture, photographs, costumes, jewelry, stage designs, posters, furniture, and personal effects. Among the highlights are a crown designed by Alphonse Mucha and executed by Lalique, a letter that Bernhardt wrote to author/playwright Emile Zola, and a rare audio recording of the actress performing Edmond Rostand’s L’Aiglon.

Bernhardt was born in France in 1844 to a Jewish courtesan but was baptized a Catholic. Throughout her career, she was attacked for her supposedly Jewish features and behavior. A huge star in Europe, she also had great success in America, which she toured nine times. She was the first major actress to perform on film and eventually made eight movies. Bernhardt died in 1923.

Admission to the museum is $10 for adults, $7.50 for students/seniors, free for children under 12 and Jewish Museum members. On Thursday evenings, 5pm-8pm, admission is pay-as-you-wish. For more information, call 212-423-3200 or visit www.jewishmuseum.org.