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Arts & Entertainment

Dramatic Portrayal of Catherine the Great

Have you ever wondered why there is only one woman in Russian history to be labeled "The Great?" Catherine the Great's story is astounding! Academic entertainer Barbara Rinella will give a dramatic performance of Catherine based on Robert Massie’s masterpiece biography on Friday, September 21, at 1:30 p.m. preceded by lunch at Noon, at The Garlands of Barrington, 1000 Garlands Lane, Barrington, IL. The cost for lunch and the show is $35 per person. Reservations can be made by calling Amy at 847-304-1996.

Learn how a bewildered little German girl, initially ignored because her mother wanted a son, little Sophia Augustas Fredericka of Anhalt-Zerbst, evolves into the most powerful Empress in Russian history.

Sophia is engulfed in a time of phenomenal history and intrigue as her ambitious mother arranges a marriage with the only living grandson of Peter the Great. Summoned to the Russian court, how did 14-year-old Sophia respond? Rinella will become Catherine as she tells the story of her painful marriage to dull and disappointing Peter, the necessity to produce an heir, the creativity and brilliance of Catherine to charm, use to advantage and love other men, and once Empress, her immersion in the great figures of the European Enlightenment, especially the poet Voltaire.

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Catherine rules for 34 years during the time of the American Revolution, the French Revolution, the power of Prussia, the partition of Poland and much more. How does Catherine play her cards? Do come and meet her!

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