Judith Shakespeare has one ambition: to be a playwright. When her debt-ridden father forces her into an engagement, she runs away with the help of dashing actor Ned Alleyn, hoping to join her brother in London. But when Judith arrives in the plague-stricken capital, she finds her brother gone, Ned engaged to another, and her play refused. Judith and the players confront poverty in the midst of economic depression, in a society where women’s freedoms are curtailed, under a government confronting religious extremism in a climate of fear. Judith must choose between succumbing to social pressures, and following her dream, no matter what the cost.

Vermont Shakespeare Festival presents a Salon Series staged reading of Shakespeare’s Sister by Emma Whipday, a new play, which had its international premiere this year at the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, VA. It will be presented on Sunday, October 15, 3 p.m. at Colchester’s Mead Hall, Scandinavian Restaurant and Tasting Room, 856 Hercules Drive, Colchester. Suggested donation $10. Refreshments will be available for sale. There will be a discussion after the reading. Local actor Aly Perry will play the role of Judith Shakespeare. Other roles will feature audience favorite actors Dean Linnard and Nick Piacente, who have performed with VSF since 2012.

To RSVP email info@vermontshakespeare.org or call (877) 874-1911.