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Tea for Three
Written By: Jane Jerry | Issue: 2017/09 - September
What is it like for a woman when her husband becomes the President of the United States – and she is suddenly thrust into the spotlight?
“Tea for Three: Lady Bird, Pat & Betty” explores the hopes, fears, quirks and loves of Lady Bird Johnson, Pat Nixon and Betty Ford in what Mrs. Nixon called “the hardest unpaid job in the world.”
The three former First Ladies will be sharing secrets in Highlands on Sunday, September 24, in the Off-Broadway hit, “Tea for Three: Lady Bird, Pat & Betty.” This special performance will be held only once – at 5:00 P.M. at the Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center in Highlands to benefit the Literacy Council of Highlands.
In his review for The New York Times, drama critic Ken Jaworowski wrote, “There are some good stories in ‘Tea for Three: Lady Bird, Pat & Betty.’ But sometimes the silences tell the best tales. Using separate vignettes Elaine Bromka gives an overview of the kind and dutiful Lady Bird Johnson, the welcoming but wounded Pat Nixon, the chatty and bold Betty Ford. We learn of their feelings for their husbands, their opinions of the country and their plans for the future. There is an overarching theme of loneliness and sacrifice, and an indirect look at the changing roles of women during dynamic times.
“‘Lyndon has always been my identity,’ Lady Bird says. ‘This need for women to have their own identity, is for another generation.’ That’s a far cry from Betty Ford’s declaration, only eight years later: ‘I guess some people think a first lady should just stand by her husband’s side, silently, but you can’t shut this one up!’
“Ms. Bromka usually chooses understatement over exclamation, and she’s usually right. When Pat Nixon hints at her husband’s scandals, or mentions that the couple no longer dance together, Ms. Bromka lets the line fade. The sad pause that follows is weighted with emotion.”
“Tea for Three : Lady Bird, Pat & Betty” receives high praise from audiences of all ages, men and women, and people of all political persuasions.
Don’t miss this memorable evening. To see a video clip, visit teaforthree.com. For tickets and more information, call the Literacy Council at (828) 526-0863.
