The Belle of Amherst

A one-woman play based on the life of poet Emily Dickinson from 1830 to 1886, and set in her Amherst, Mass., home.

Bringing poetry to life, Sara Hartley performs as Emily Dickinson in William Luce’s classic play, making use of Dickinson's work, diaries, and letters to recollect her encounters with the significant people in her life – family, close friends, and acquaintances. The 75-minute monologue feels like a visit with the poet herself, and balances the agony of her seclusion with the brief bright moments when she was able to experience some joy.

Playgoers will be treated to tea or coffee along with a tasting of Emily Dickinson's Black Cake, which features predominantly in the show.

Hope is the thing with feathers
That perches in the soul
And sings the song without the words
And never stops at all.

-- Emily Dickinson

Meet Sara Hartely

Sara Hartley is an actor, musician, and writer living in Long Lake Township. Sara has performed locally with Old Town Playhouse, Parallel 45 Theater, Interlochen Center for the Arts, The Stonefruit Collective, and sings with local jazz group Samba D. Sara holds a BA in Music from Alma College and an MFA in Creative NonFiction Writing from Vermont College of Fine Art. This is her second season performing as Emily Dickinson, having debuted the role in a parking lot in the spring of 2021.