The Heiress

Based on Henry James’ 1881 novel Washington Square, The Heiress is a spellbinding drama and the 1995 Tony Award-winner for Best Revival of a Play. Catherine Sloper, who stands to inherit a fortune from her ailing physician father, is a plain-looking young woman living under his malevolent scrutiny, as well as his well-meaning but cold-hearted demeanor. Dr. Sloper disapproves of Catherine’s passionate suitor Morris Townsend, certain that the penniless young man has proposed marriage to win Catherine’s inheritance. Catherine’s too much in love to consider this potential betrayal, and when circumstances lead her to misinterpret Morris’s intentions, The Heiress reaches an unforgettable conclusion that brilliantly supports the richly psychological nuance brought to the preceding romance. A masterpiece of love, deception and betrayal, The Heiress remains a shining example of a true theatrical achievement.