Isabella Rossellini’s Darwin’s Smile

We are pleased to present two performances of Isabella Rossellini’s Darwin’s Smile at ArtYard’s McDonnell Theater in Frenchtown at 7 PM on Saturday, March 11 and 3 PM on Sunday, March 12. Tickets for the performances are $80.

Isabella Rossellini’s new one-woman show Darwin’s Smile reconciles two worlds that are often at opposite ends — art and science.

Reading Charles Darwin’s book The Expression of Emotions on Man and Animals revealed to her that the continuity between human and animals can also be detected in the expression of emotions.

Isabella explores how empathy, that is at the base of acting, is also necessary for the studies of animal behavior (ethology).

The show is both a lesson on evolution and acting. In her usual comical tones, she demonstrates how acting could be used to understand the mysterious nature of animals and their emotions. With humor and simple, innocent devices she plays on stage dogs, cats, chickens, peacocks, and, of course, Charles Darwin.

The show is an opportunity to learn while being entertained and laughing all about the art of acting and complex scientific theories.

“During the Covid lockdown I had ample time to reflect about my passions for theater and science,” Isabella said. “These two interests of mine seemed to me distinct and separate — one satisfied my heart, the other the brain. Until I understood that they can be reconciled. Finally, my heart and my brain are reconciled and harmonious.”

Tickets will be on sale Dec. 6.

Darwin’s Smile Credits

Written by Isabella Rossellini
Directed by Murielle Mayette -Holtz
Costumes and set by Rudy Sabounghi
Light designed by Pascal Noël
Music by Cyril Giroux
Videos Andy Byers and Rick Gilbert
Poster designed by Andy Byers
Isabella Rossellini’s assistant Gregorio Franchetti
Rudy Sabounghi’s assistant Julien Soulier