The Maids by Jean Genet at Mildred's Umbrella Theater Company

Mildred’s Umbrella Theatre Company opens its 2016-2017 season with THE MAIDS by Jean Genet. Loosely based on the infamous Papín sisters who brutally murdered their employer and her daughter in Le Mans, France, in 1933, THE MAIDS tells the story of two servants who act out elaborate role-plays while their mistress is away, all centered around killing her.

“The play has been on my mind for about ten years now,” said Artistic Director Jennifer Decker. “Genet’s work fits perfectly in with our dark and often surrealist aesthetic, and it speaks to our mission of gender parity in casting. We’re excited to re-visit this modern classic and give it our own unique twist.”

Jon Harvey, a Mildred’s Umbrella company member and the director of last year’s hit THE DROWNING GIRLS, has been tapped to helm the production. “I’m thrilled Jennifer has entrusted me with this piece and has given me another opportunity to direct for Mildred’s Umbrella,” said Harvey. “Genet writes in a dreamy dark prose that draws you to the underbelly of society. In THE MAIDS, we watch as these two servants role-play, scheme and fight for the adoration of a master they despise – yet in the end, remain slaves still indebted to their mistress.”

The piece will be a reunion of many other members of THE DROWNING GIRLS team as well. Returning to the stage are Patricia Duran and Courtney Lomelo starring as Solange and Claire while the design team of Andy McWilliams (sound), Jodi Bobrovsky (set design), Greg Starbird (lighting) and Lindsay Burns (costumes) are also joining forces again to create a holistic theatrical experience. Rounding out the cast is Lindsay Ehrhardt, who we welcome to the Mildred’s mainstage in the role of Madame.

THE MAIDS runs July 28 through August 13 at Studio 101 at Spring Street Studios in the heart of the Washington Avenue Arts District. Tickets are on sale now at www.mildredsumbrella.com. For more information, call 832-418-0973 or e-mail info@mildredsumbrella.com.