THE VERVE PROJECT - "THEY CALLED ME RITA"

Rita Hayworth: Hollywood Icon. Underneath her glittering performances and explosive charisma, Rita is like any one of us: shy, lonely, desperate, pretending, hiding, hoping… This one woman play explores Rita’s quest for freedom and love through her rise to stardom to her tragic decline in suffering with Alzheimer’s disease for nearly 30 years.  

THEY CALLED ME RITA celebrates the successes and struggles of Rita Hayworth, shedding light on the 1940s Love Goddess. The audience experiences her turbulent, determined and emotional quest to reclaim her life from the men who shaped her, from early adulthood to her last transcendent moments.  

Onyx Hartwell’s original play captures the dynamic and raw essence of Rita Hayworth. Nelia McNicol brings the icon to life. Lil Malinich directs and Aydan Cohen choreographs, fusing artistic elements of acting and dance. This one-woman show explores themes of love, resilience, strength and grace, unfolding profound truths. @theycalledmerita