On Saturday, May 21 at 8 pm, and Sunday May 22 at 7 pm, Rachel Urist’s American Impressionists in Monet Country will be presented at the Michigan League. The event is a theatrical exploration of the artists in Giverny at the turn of the 20th century.

Giverny is a tranquil village, nestled between Paris and Rouen. It was home to Claude Monet, his wife, Alice, and their six children. The shimmering air and pastoral landscapes drew painters from near and far. Giveny attracted so many American painters, that it became known as “the American colony.” Painters who sojourned there included John Singer Sargent, Theodore Robinson, Theodore Butler, Lilla Cabot Perry, and Michigan native, Frederick Frieseke.

This event is the brainchild of writer Rachel Urist and theatre-maker Nancy Heusel. The event is hosted by the Friends of the Michigan League. The presentation features the paintings of Frederick Frieseke, a Michigan-born member of the Giverny community. Urist directs. She and Heusel join the cast.

This reader’s theatre presentation includes live music (Laurel Federbush on harp) and projected images of eighty paintings by many artists. It features a cast of nine actors playing thirty five characters. Performances will take place in the Koessler Room (third floor, Michigan League). A light reception will follow.