AAFSW – WIPAC Event: O Mistress Mine

On Sunday, June 3, 2018, AAFSW and the Washington International Piano Arts Council (WIPAC) co-sponsored a wonderful program: “O Mistress Mine: The Secrets, Lies, Loves & Wives of Edward de Vere.” This amazing show was presented by the multi-talented playwright, producer, singer, and esteemed actress Robin Phillips. Ms. Phillips created this lively, witty, and charming entertainment, based on a one-woman show, which explores the four centuries surrounding the mysteries concerning who actually wrote the ingenious 16th century works under the name Shakespeare.

Robin Phillips further explores the lives of two Englishmen: Will Shakespeare of Stratford-Upon-Avon, and Edward de Vere, the 17th Earl of Oxford. The presentation was live and pre-recorded on a film that also explores evidence that the social classes were separated by the “dress” code going back to Roman times. Commoners were relegated to dull basic colors, whereas the nobility were permitted to wear expensive silks, velvet, varied colors and gold. And so, a tradesman would not have been able to insinuate himself into the aristocratic world of “Shakespeare” because of the clothes on his back!

This creative and thought-provoking film debuted a “special screening” with spicy humor on June 3 for some 80 Shakespeare lovers and other AAFSW and WIPAC members at the lovely McLean Carderock Falls Manor in Virginia. The entire evening was great fun starting with Champagne, wine, and heavy hors d’oeuvres overlooking the garden, followed by the two act program and later a delicious dinner, delightful dessert, and lovely chat.

Sheila Switzer
AAFSW Program Chair