Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald is often remembered as the “crazy wife” of F. Scott Fitzgerald, author of The Great Gatsby. As one half of the Golden Couple of the 1920s, she was a dazzling icon of the Jazz Age and the inspiration behind many of Fitzgerald’s flapper heroines.
But before she became Zelda Fitzgerald, she was Zelda Sayre—the flamboyant belle of Montgomery, Alabama. The daughter of a prominent judge and an artistic mother, Zelda was notorious for her bold personality and unconventional antics. Her larger-than-life persona captivated the public both before and after her marriage, becoming the stuff of legend.
Though celebrated in her time, Zelda was far more than a glittering party girl or muse. She was a deeply creative and complex woman who struggled with schizophrenia for much of her life. She was also a devoted mother, an accomplished ballet dancer, a published writer, and a visual artist whose work was exhibited during her lifetime.
This original play pays tribute to Zelda as she truly was: a vibrant, misunderstood woman striving to define herself beyond the myths.
Rita Parisi is the creator and performer of I Am Zelda, an original one-woman play that brings Zelda Fitzgerald vividly to life on stage. A seasoned theatre artist with more than three decades of experience, she has appeared in venues across New England and beyond, earning praise for her ability to create intimate, compelling characters that captivate audiences. She has also been awarded over 100 grants to support her work, reflecting her deep passion for history, literature, and powerful storytelling.
Meet the Team
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