Aqua Tofana

×

Expand

Scott Feiner

Charly Sparks, front, and cast members of "Aqua Tofana."

Charly Sparks, front, and cast members of "Aqua Tofana," an Are We Delicious? production.

The Are We Delicious? troupe returns with a play that has a truly delicious premise. It’s the story of Giulia Tofana — who? Wikipedia calls her “an Italian professional poisoner” (no amateur, she) who “sold a poison called Aqua Tofana to women who wanted to murder their husbands.” You had us at “poison.” As is the case with Are We Delicious?, the cast writes and performs the piece over the course of a few weeks, while the director, Madison College’s Karen Saari, will, as she puts it, “guide the writing process a bit.” Shows are at 8 p.m. June 12-14 and 20-21 and 2 p.m. June 22.

8 pm on 6/12-14 & 20-21 and 2 pm, 6/22. $27 adv.

media release: Are We Delicious and Broom Street Theater are pleased to announce Are We Delicious: Aqua Tofana, a riveting new production, which delves into the life of Giulia Tofana, the enigmatic 17th-century figure behind the notorious poison that bears her name. Set against the backdrop of a society where women’s voices were silenced, this production sheds light on an extraordinary story of resilience, rebellion, and sisterhood.

Directed by the talented, inventive local playwright and artist Karen Saari, Aqua Tofana brings a bold and visionary approach to this gripping historical tale. 

Giulia Tofana’s creation, Aqua Tofana, became more than a deadly concoction—it symbolized autonomy for women trapped in oppressive circumstances. By exploring this chapter of history, we aim to bring to light the hidden strengths, community bonds, and quiet resilience of women who defied the social order. Through Aqua Tofana, we hope to weave a story of sisterhood and survival, revealing the silent yet powerful ways in which women fought for freedom.

By bringing this tale to the stage, Are We Delicious? aims to illuminate the quiet, yet powerful acts of defiance that shaped women's history, offering audiences a poignant narrative of survival and empowerment. Would you dare drink from the cup of vengeance?

Join us for this compelling exploration of courage, resistance, and the untold power of community. 

Writer/Actors: Stacey Garbarski, Jessica Kennedy, Rachel Stetenfeld, Mary Wallin, Brandi McBride, and Charly Sparks. 

Director: Karen Saari 

Stage Manager: Tanis Steed

Performance Details:

• The show runs 60 minutes with no intermission.
• Location: Broom Street Theater, 1119 Williamson Street, Madison WI
• Tickets: Available in advance at bstonline.org, or at the door the evening of the performance. Tickets at the door are pay-what-you-can.