The Women who Inspired Bon Appetit & The Italian Lesson 

Julia Child (1912-2004)

Long before the advent of the Food Network, Rachel Ray, and Emeril there was America's first celebrity chef, Julia Child, who single-handedly changed the way we think about cooking in this country.  A certified cultural icon, she is widely known for her bubbly and humorous personality during her many years on TV as "The French Chef".  She is a true pioneer in the field and we can thank her not only for decades of entertaining cooking shows and cookbooks but also for her immeasurable influence on the culinary world and on American culture in general. 

Julia Child graduated from Smith College and spent many years as a resident of Cambridge, MA.  She did not develop an interest in cooking until she was in her 30's and was inspired by a meal she had during a visit to France.  She enrolled in a culinary school in New York and slowly and methodically learned the art of      cooking.  Her show, produced at the studios of WGBH in Boston, premiered at a time when food companies were selling housewives on "instant" and "quick"     solutions to get them out of the kitchen.  However, many women who enjoyed cooking, were captivated by Julia, who validated their interest and helped to unlock for them the mysteries of French Cooking.  Her informal and self-deprecating   manner made her show a hit for many years, and millions would turn on her live show just to see if any mishaps would occur and how she would handle them.  Tonight's opera is based word-for-word on one of her many TV episodes and will incorporate the feel of a live performance. 

Ruth Draper (1884-1956)

"I have always felt that Ruth Draper was (with Martha Graham) the greatest individual performer that America has ever given us." -- John Gielgud

"When I first discovered Ruth Draper's recordings, suddenly I had a standard.  I had something to aspire to."  -- Lily Tomlin

"Ruth Draper makes movies for the ears."  -- Tom Waits

The brilliant actress Ruth Draper performed professionally throughout the world from 1920 until her death in 1952.  A pioneer in the form of the stage monologue, she herself performed all the monologues she wrote.  In total, they introduce us to 60 distinct characters and 368 "invisible" characters who interact with her     throughout.  She received a huge and enthusiastic following wherever she performed, and today our only record of her performances exists from a series of fascinating recordings made late in her life which are now available on CD.  They are staggering in their brilliance as they exhibit vivid characterizations, gentle irony, wild imagination, and richness of detail. 

Ruth Draper grew up in the world of New York high society although she spent a good amount of time in New England with her relatives.  Her friends and supporters included Edith Wharton, Henry James, Arthur Rubenstein, Arturo Toscanini, Sarah Bernhardt, and George Bernard Shaw.   Tonight's performance presents one of her most beloved monologues set to music, The Italian Lesson. 

Links: