Waterford An Inspiration for Eugene O'Neill

The places of Eugene O’Neill’s life were enormously impactful upon his writing - New London & Waterford in particular. But what exactly about these Coastal New England locales served as such profound sources of inspiration? Was it the culture of the time? The people?

Join us for a weekend of discussions and readings, and explore the role of these communities in shaping the work of America’s greatest dramatist.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16 - 6PM

Connecticut College

Eugene O’Neill spent his boyhood summers in New London at his family’s home, Monte Cristo Cottage. Although he did not return after his father’s death in 1920, his vivid recollection of the cottage, the town, and the townsfolk appear in his writing decades later. The Monte Cristo Cottage itself is the setting of O’Neill’s most famous play, LONG DAYS JOURNEY INTO NIGHT and his only comedy, AH, WILDERNESS! Locals, albeit thinly disguised, featured prominently in O’Neill’s work: millionaire Edward Crowninshield Hammond inspired for the characters Harker in LONG DAYS JOURNEY INTO NIGHT and T. Stedman Harder in A MOON FOR THE MISBEGOTTEN.

Join us in a panel discussion with O’Neill scholars and CT Historians, as we bring O’Neill’s work to life using photos, excerpts, and primary sources describing life in New London, Waterford, and Provincetown in the early 20th Century.

*Bonus - Pre-Panel Tours of the O’Neill Theater Center exhibit at Lyman Allyn Museum, 4pm! Price for O’Neill Members, Lyman Allyn Members, & New London Residents is Free. Cost of admission for others, $15 at the door.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 - 10AM

Monte Cristo Cottage - New London, CT

Join us for a free day of programming featuring the works of O’Neill set in New London, Waterford, and Provincetown: A Moon for the Misbegotten, Mourning Becomes Electra, and Ah, Wilderness!

• Welcome Reception: 10:00 a.m.
• Readings & Discussions: 10:30 a.m.
• Panel Q&A: 12:00 p.m.
• Tours of Monte Cristo Cottage: 1:00-4:00 p.m.