Maternity (play) explained

Maternity is a dramatic three act play that opened January 6, 1915, at the Princess Theatre on Broadway starring Richard Bennett.^[1]

An English language version of Eugène Brieux's French play, Maternité (1904), the work was translated by Benjamin F. Blanchard. The play's book was adapted by Richard Bennett, whose Purpose Play Society produced.

Unlike Damaged Goods, Bennett's previous socially conscious play by Brieux, Maternity was not an artistic or financial success.^{[2] [3]} Despite special matinées, which were well patronized in the final week,^[4] the production ran for only 21 performances before closing.

Synopsis

Maternity deals with out-of-wedlock birth and the relations of motherhood to society.

Opening night cast

Actor	Character
	Josephine
	Madeleine
	Lucie Brignac
	Catherine Tupin
	Julian Brignac
	Dr. Hourtin
	Fechain
	Annette
	Mme. Bernin
	Judge of the Court of Assises
W. L. Romaine	Prosecutor
	Council for the Defense
	Mme. Thomas
	Marie Gaubert
W. W. Crimmans	Tupin
Vera de Cordova	Mme. d'Amergueux
	De Forgeau

Notes and References

1. Book: Bordman, Gerald Martin. American theatre: a chronicle of comedy and drama, 1914-1930. 15 March 2011. 1995. Oxford University Press US. 978-0-19-509078-9. 18.
2. New York Times, Jan. 7, 1915, "Bennett Gives Us Some More Brieux --- English Translation of "Maternite" Is Produced at the Princess Theatre," p. 13
3. New York Times, Jan. 10, 1915, "Second Thoughts on First Nights --- A Mild Expression of Doubt as to How Well a Certain Purpose Play Serves Its Purpose," p. 66
4. New York Times, Jan. 31, 1915, "Matinee of "Maternity" at Princess," p. X 9