Kelsey portrays Dickinson

Linda Kelsey opens her two-week run of “The Belle of Amherst,” by William Luce. The play celebrates the life of 19th century American poet Emily Dickinson, exploring her private life, her hopes and dreams, and her poetic genius.

“Dickinson was a recluse, but she still led a very full life… what I’ve found is a life richer than most of us can imagine… We’ll never know why she wore only white, and why she never left the house after the age of 30, but in the long run it doesn’t matter because of the depth and fullness of her life,” said Kelsey.

According to director Jon Cranney, a longtime friend and colleague of Kelsey, “Linda’s innate understanding and her quiet sensitivity as a performer serve to inform her portrayal of this important figure in American cultural life in a truly wonderful way. I cannot think of a better person to play this role.”

Performances are Jan. 9-18 on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $22 for adults and $15 for all students with a current I.D., with a $2 discount for seniors on the Sunday matinees. For reservations, contact The Phipps ticket office at (715) 386-8409 or visit www.ThePhipps. org.

Tags: entertainment, hudson, kelsey, phipps, dickinson