Is He Dead?

Is He Dead? is a play by Mark Twain written in 1898 and published in 2003. The play was long known by scholars but never attracted much attention until Twain scholar Shelly Fishkin had it published in book form. Contemporary American Playwright David Ives adapted it for the modern stage. It was first performed in 2007.

​Although Jean Francois Millet was a real painter (1814-1875) the play is fictional. A prolific artist, two of his most famous works are Angellus and The Bather. In our story, his works are magnificent but they are not selling well. He and his buddies lament that it's a well-known face that artists don't make any sales until they are dead. Sadly, Millet has to die (only pretend). Fortunately his sister is alive and well Since there is no real sister, Millet will have to become his own sister. Of course there is a beautiful young woman with whom Millet is madly in love. Millet owes money to an older man who, naturally will be the villain of the story. He wants to have Millet's girlfriend for himself. He will settle the debt buying Millet's paintings for just a few centimes on the franc. Despair not, for the villain will get his comeuppance, Millet (as himself) will get the girl and his paintings will sell like croissants chauds.

Cast includes: Geoff Matthews, Robert Cooper, Melissa Vincel, Danielle Burr, Ed Cheshire III, Bill Young, Jeff Dempsey, Elle Woodcock, Shirley Williams, Greg Santoro, Tim Connor, Frank Buda. Directed by David Butler with the assistance of Jackie Santoro and Bob Boles.

Performance dates: March 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18 at 7:30 p.m.and matinees: March 5, 12, 19 at 3:00 p.m. Preview date: March 2 at 7:30 p.m.