The Paisley Princess: Breaking Out of Bounds was written in 1988 by St. Augustine playwright Toni Libro as a commission from People Against Spouse Abuse of Gloucester. It was produced by Stageworks Touring Company, which enjoyed a successful run of the award-winning play. The themes are still stunningly current - especially given the pandemic spike in domestic abuse -  in 2022.

The play centers on the journeys of three very different women. Their stories were inspired by oral history interviews and research conducted by Ms. Libro in the late 80s. In a New York Times article about the play Ms. Libro was quoted as saying: “I got an emotional truth from the victims.”

This production is a benefit for Hopefull Handbags Global Non-Profit, a local organization founded by Cathlene Miner in honor of her grandmother. Ms. Miner’s organization offers assistance to survivors of domestic abuse and their children. Hopefull Handbags Global will be present with literature and resources.

“It’s challenging subject matter. Many of us recognize ourselves or our loved ones. But the piece is ultimately triumphant. Our goal is to be honest to these characters and the stories that fueled their creation,” says director Heather Eggleston. When she was presented with Ms. Libro’s script she immediately pulled together a cast of actresses to bring the play to life. The Limelight Theatre generously supplied the space to stage the project. Executive director Sherrie Provence shared: “I am happy to support something as important as this. I understand the need to tell these stories. Women do not need to feel alone.”

The event features local actresses Danielle Dobies, Anna Hobbs, Jennifer Jacobsen, Jenna Abell, Natalie Beltrami, and dancer Ivy Beato.

Saturday, December 3, 2022. 2 PM and 7 PM at The Limelight Theatre. Tickets are $25. There is an option to purchase raffle tickets to win a generous gift basket