Directed by Steve Cosson, the solo play began previews Oct. 7 prior to an official opening Oct. 19. Upon closing, it will have played 14 previews and 41 regular performances.
"In The Belle of Amherst, Emily Dickinson welcomes audiences into her lifelong Amherst homestead in mid-19th century Massachusetts," press notes state. "While Dickinson found solace in solitude through much of her life, acclaimed playwright William Luce weaves her poems, diaries, and letters into a one-woman portrait of one of America鈥檚 greatest and most prolific poets, mixing Dickinson鈥檚 encounters with close friends and family with the poet鈥檚 own, often amusing observations. The Belle Of Amherst illuminates a brilliant wordsmith through the words she left behind."
Richardson starred on the TV show "Nip/Tuck" from 2003-10. Her stage work includes Madame Melville, Ivanov, Side Effects and The Lady From the Sea. Her film credits include "Wetherby," "Drowning By Numbers," "101 Dalmatians" and "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo." .
The play, which was produced on Broadway in 1976, starring Tony winner , met with mixed critical responses. Both the 1976 and 2014 productions were presented by Don Gregory.
The creative team includes Antje Ellermann (scenic design), William Ivey Long (costume design), David Weiner (lighting design) and Daniel Kluger (sound design).
The Westside Theatre is located at 407 West 43rd Street. Visit for more information.
