Open Book Theatre’s ARTEMISIA Shines a Spotlight on a Baroque Painter in Powerful Story of Resilience, Female Empowerment, and Artistic Legacy
- Encore Staff Writer
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Trenton, MI — This spring, Open Book Theatre Company brings a remarkable woman out of
the shadows of history and into the spotlight. Running May 16 through June 8, 2025, Artemisia
by Lauren Gunderson tells the powerful story of 17th-century Italian painter Artemisia
Gentileschi—a woman whose name and artistry were nearly erased but whose spirit could never
be silenced.
Directed by OBTC Artistic Director Krista Schafer, Artemisia is both a celebration and a
reckoning. “I am always drawn to stories of strong, creative women,” Schafer says, “and
playwright Lauren Gunderson has such a gift for writing about fascinating women of historical
significance who have been largely overlooked.” Schafer previously directed Gunderson’s Ada
and the Engine and played the title role in Emilie at Open Book, and says this piece continues the
tradition of honoring unsung female pioneers.
A Story of Strength, Resilience, and Art
Artemisia Gentileschi was just 17 when she was raped by a fellow artist and subjected to a
grueling public trial, during which her hands were crushed to “prove” her truth. Rather than
retreating into silence, Artemisia took her rapist to court—an extraordinary act in 1612—and
went on to become one of the most celebrated painters of her time.
“Despite this damage to her hands, she continued her career as an artist, overcoming physical
obstacles, family obstacles, and heartbreak,” Schafer notes. “She was a feminist far before
feminism was a thought.” Indeed, for centuries, her paintings were wrongly attributed to male
artists, simply because no one could believe a woman was capable of such mastery.
Audiences will recognize one of her most famous works, Judith and her Maidservant, which
hangs at the Detroit Institute of Arts—a powerful local connection to a global legacy.
A Cast Bringing the Canvas to Life
The play features 2 actresses as the artist: Kamryn Marck as young Artemisia and Lisa Michaels
as the older, more seasoned artist and mother.
For Marck, embodying Artemisia’s early years is both a privilege and a responsibility. “This
project discusses a real rape that happened to Artemisia in her youth... I feel a great duty to do
her story justice and do my best to tap into the rage, the hurt, the fear, the strength that she might
have felt during all of this,” she shares.
“It’s absolutely moving to watch someone face difficulty with humor, courage, and passion. Something I really like about this particular telling of Artemisia's story is that it doesn't hide away from the traumas she experienced, but it doesn't stop there... We get to see how she bounced back, how she found ways to love, to paint again, to be reinspired.”
A Timely Tale for Modern Audiences
Although Artemisia is set in Renaissance Italy, its themes resonate deeply in today’s world.
“This show touches on complex family dynamics, navigating a patriarchal society, self-advocacy, pleasure activism, and establishing a legacy,” says Michaels. “Art has the power to hold a mirror up to society, and this show certainly does its part to reflect back to audiences the importance of women contributing to the societal narrative.”
Jeannine Coughlin, who plays several roles in the show, echoes the sense of relevance: “I had
seen some of her paintings but just assumed they had been painted by a male artist. This type of
bias is so ingrained in us all. It's so important to hear the stories of women. To learn of their
accomplishments. Artemesia was breaking barriers in the 1600's!”
In an era when women’s voices are still being silenced, questioned, or erased, Artemisia’s story
feels more urgent than ever. Yet this play isn’t a tragedy—it’s a tribute. “People will be inspired
by her strength and determination,” Schafer affirms. “They’ll relate to her desire to live life on
her own terms.”
Tickets and Dates
Performances run May 16 – June 8, 2025. Evening shows are May 16, 17, 23, 25, 30, 31 and
June 5, 6, 7 at 8pm. Matinees are May 18, 25 and June 1 & 8 at 2pm.
Open Book Theatre Company is located at 1621 West Road in Trenton, Michigan. The venue is
fully accessible, and ticket options include discounts for students and seniors. For ticket
information, visit openbooktheatrecompany.net or call (734) 288-7753.
With Artemisia, Open Book Theatre paints a vivid portrait of a woman who dared to defy, to
create, and to leave her mark. Don’t miss this stirring tribute to a true icon of resilience, artistry,
and feminine power.
Details:
Open Book Theatre Company
1621 West Road, Trenton, MI 48183
734 288-7753
Show tickets: $32 for general admission, $27 for seniors, $17 for students
*Opening night all tickets are $37
Show Dates and Times: May 16, 17, 23, 25, 30, 31 and June 5, 6, 7 at 8pm and May 18, 25, and
June 1 & 8 at 2pm (Sunday performances are followed by a conversation with the artists)
