The Unlikely Theater: A Mansion's Transformation
In the heart of New York's Upper East Side, an Episcopal retreat house has unexpectedly become the talk of the town. But how did this serene sanctuary, the House of the Redeemer, transform into a sought-after off-Broadway venue?
The journey begins with a Tony Award-winning legend, André De Shields, and his portrayal of Tartuffe. Soon after, Modern Family's Jesse Tyler Ferguson brought Truman Capote to life in the very same space. What's remarkable is that these performances weren't in a traditional theater but in the intimate setting of a mansion's library.
The House of the Redeemer, a retreat within the Episcopal Archdiocese, has a rich history intertwined with New York's cultural elite. The story takes an intriguing turn when we learn that the library, now a stage, has a direct connection to Capote's life. It was once the home of Edith Fabbri, a woman of wealth and influence, whose family ties included the iconic Gloria Vanderbilt.
A Mansion's Legacy
Edith Fabbri's story is a fascinating one. Born into privilege as Edith Vanderbilt Shepard, she and her family amassed a significant fortune in America. Their lavish home, constructed in the late 19th century, was inspired by the Italian Renaissance, complete with 17th-century wood ceilings and panelings imported from Italy. This attention to detail and opulence set the stage for the mansion's future as a cultural hub.
The mansion's grandeur is evident in its spacious rooms, each with a unique purpose. From the grand dining room, now an event space, to the drawing room-turned-chapel, the house exudes elegance. The library, the focal point of our story, was once the backdrop for Edith's extravagant parties, attended by the likes of the Rockefellers and Roosevelts.
Preserving History and Finding Purpose
As time marched on, many of these grand homes were lost to the city's development. Skyscrapers and apartment buildings replaced them, erasing a piece of New York's architectural and cultural heritage. But the House of the Redeemer survived, thanks to a serendipitous moment.
A sermon during Lent in 1947, referencing a Bible verse from St. Mark, inspired Edith Fabbri to donate her home for a higher purpose. She envisioned a sanctuary for rest and reflection, a 'place apart' from the chaos of daily life. This act of generosity ensured the preservation of the mansion's architectural splendor.
Adapting to Survive
The House's journey hasn't been without challenges. Initially operated by an order of nuns, the House faced financial strains due to insufficient endowment. The departure of the nuns in 1982 marked a turning point. Under the guidance of Rev. Herbert L. Linley, the House embraced a new financial model, renting its space for various events, including film shoots for Woody Allen and The Godfather, Part III.
While this shift might seem far from Edith Fabbri's original vision, it ensured the House's survival. It continued to serve as a retreat, offering solace to clergy members, non-profit workers, and caregivers. The House's unique atmosphere, a blend of history and tranquility, attracted filmmakers and event organizers alike.
Embracing the Arts
In recent years, the House has embraced its role as a cultural venue. The Fabbri Chamber Concert Series and high-profile interviews like Mike Wallace's CBS exit have graced its halls. However, a fully staged theatrical production remained unexplored territory.
Enter director Keaton Wooden with a bold vision: an immersive Tartuffe, starring André De Shields, staged in the historic library. This production pushed the boundaries of what the House could offer, requiring creative solutions to meet Actors Equity regulations. The former director's apartment became a dressing room, showcasing the adaptability of the space.
A New Chapter
The success of Tartuffe paved the way for more theater. Director Rob Ashford's choice of the House for Tru, a play about Truman Capote, was a stroke of genius. The library, once a setting for Capote's social gatherings, now echoed with his words and memories.
The House's leadership, led by Natasha Donnelly, is open to further theatrical ventures, embracing culturally resonant themes. While challenges remain, such as the lack of central air conditioning, the House's evolution is a testament to its resilience and adaptability.
Personally, I find the House of the Redeemer's story captivating. It's a living example of how spaces can transform and adapt, preserving history while embracing contemporary culture. This unique blend of past and present, serenity and creativity, is what makes the House a truly special venue. What began as a retreat has become a vibrant cultural hub, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected places can become the hottest tickets in town.
