top of page
“I confess I do not admire contention in any form, either political or civil. I would rather fight with my hands than my tongue.”
Dolley Madison
First Ladies and The Big White Lie
First Ladies and The Big White Lie is not just a play. It is a political and historical unveiling - calling on viewers to explore the parts of our history that we need to be more honest about. First Ladies brings to life some of the powerful First Ladies - women behind some of the greatest happenings in US history - to experience and respond to contemporary events. Casting a new light on the present, the past, and everything in between.
Meet Mary, Abigail, Dolley, Patsy, Jackie and Eleanor in First Ladies and The Big White Lie.
A Political Play by Women Playwright Janine Sternlieb with Lennie Dean
“All men would be
tyrants if they could”
Abigail Adams
​The most famous deceased First Ladies are having a hard time accepting the Trump presidency. But what can they do about it? After all, they’re dead! While unprecedented events are unfolding in DC, in Charlottesville, and at the Mexican border, their predictable “existence” is thrown into chaos. They must confront the secrets and deceptions that have hindered America’s march towards a truly democratic society.
“My [daughter], I am going to die...but I’ll try to be brave about it. Don’t you wear black. It is bad for your health and will depress your husband.”
Varina Davis
“It is truly the happiness of my life to think that I can dedicate the remainder of it to promote yours.”
- written to her father.
Patsy Jefferson
bottom of page