Edith Wharton Play Roman Fever

Staged Reading at the Mount

By: Mount - Sep 17, 2026

 

The Mount, Edith Wharton Cultural Center, will present a reading of Edith Wharton’s iconic short story “Roman Fever” on October 14 at 6:00 pm. Adapted for the stage by Dennis Krausnick and directed by Normi Noel, this intimate theatrical presentation will feature actors Corinna May, Diane Prusha, and David Joseph.

Set against the timeless backdrop of Rome, “Roman Fever” explores friendship, jealousy, betrayal, and the secrets that can reshape a lifetime. In Wharton’s sharply observed story, two longtime friends revisit their shared past, gradually revealing simmering tensions, long-buried secrets, and startling revelations. The reading brings Wharton’s razor-sharp wit and enduring fascination with the complexities of human relationships vividly to life.

The reading will take place in The Mount’s Stable Auditorium, a 140-seat, climate-controlled indoor venue adjacent to the parking lot. Seating is first-come, first-served, and guests with seating preferences are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes early. Accessible seating is available.

A reception will follow the performance, offering cast members and audience members an opportunity to share memories of Shakespeare & Company at The Mount.

This event is dedicated to Tina Packer, who founded Shakespeare & Company at The Mount in 1978. For 23 remarkable years, Edith Wharton’s estate served as the celebrated troupe’s artistic home, where audiences gathered for outdoor performances beneath the trees. It was during this time Dennis Krausnick, a founder of Shakespeare & Company and its Director of Training from 1993 to 2018, adapted several of Edith Wharton’s short stories for the stage.

The Mount extends a special thank you to Shakespeare & Company for its support of this presentation.

“Roman Fever” offers audiences a compelling opportunity to experience one of Wharton’s most enduring stories while celebrating an important chapter in the cultural history of The Mount.

DEATAILS

What: A Reading of “Roman Fever”
Written by Edith Wharton
Adapted for the stage by Dennis Krausnick
Directed by Normi Noel
Featuring Corinna May, Diane Prusha, and David Joseph
Presented by The Mount
When: October 14 at 6:00 pm
Where: The Stable Auditorium at The Mount
Lenox, Massachusetts

Tickets: $20 Members | $25 Non-members