The Marilyn Tapes

Marilyn Monroe’s legendary romances with the likes of Joe DiMaggio, Arthur Miller and Kennedy brothers Bobby and Jack, her bouts with pills and booze, and her on and off screen overpowering sensuality dominate the myth of Marilyn. Few knew that this image belied the real Marilyn. In unraveling the Marilyn myth, actor/writer Lenore Zann reveals the truth behind the headlines with her dazzling portrayal of the screen goddess who was anything but a dumb blonde.

A rat-pack era nightclub provides the setting for Marilyn to banter with her musical director, Billy (played by David Raleigh) and muse on the turns her life has taken, from the 16-year-old Norma Jean Baker to Playboy’s first centerfold to the pinnacle of Hollywood. Looking beyond the manufactured image of Marilyn the movie star, Zann paints a picture of an unloved and lonely young woman who hid behind the façade of tight gowns and wavy blonde hair. She shows us a Marilyn of intelligence and passion, one deeply committed to civil rights and social justice.

There will be one Wednesday night performance on June 1st.