Ruth Draper

On the afternoon of January 29, 1920, a small dark haired woman stood in the wings of London’s Aeolian Hall. She wore a simple dress, her shoulders draped with a shawl. The stage before her was bare, without scenery or props. As the house lights faded to darkness,…

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Patricia Norcia

Versatility has always been the theme of Patricia Norcia’s career. Born in Rome, Italy, of an Italian opera singer mother and an American father, she spent the first 14 years of her life in Italy, attending international school in Rome. There she became fluent in …

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The Ruth Draper CO.

The Draper Company

Patricia Norcia, David Kaplan and Edwin W. Schloss at a recording session for The World of Ruth Draper, the compact disk of Draper monologues released in 2000. Photo by T.L. Boston


In 1978, Patricia Norcia was a student at the Yale Drama Schoo…

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Norcia On Draper

Patricia Norcia on Ruth Draper


I’m often asked “How did you become interested in Ruth Draper?” When I was a student at the Yale School of Drama, a professor, who had stage-managed Ruth Draper on Broadway, asked me to perform “The Italian Lesson.” I had never hear…

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Kapan On Draper

David Kaplan on Ruth Draper


No brief sketch can give justice to the richness of Ruth Draper’s life. She began performing in her early youth, mimicking her family’s tailor and seamstress. Her talent was encouraged by no less than Henry James and Paderewski, and he…

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Unveiling the Legacy of Ruth Draper: Let's Connect


Greetings, fellow connoisseurs of art and storytelling!


Step into the enchanting realm of Ruth Draper Monologues, where the echo of a single voice weaves tales that transcend time. For those captivated by the allure of storytelling and the enduring impact of Ruth Draper's legacy, we extend a heartfelt invitation to take the next stride in this odyssey of exploration.


Reach out, and together, let's embark on a journey to uncover the profound narratives that Ruth Draper has gifted to humanity. Thank you for being part of this transformative narrative!