Widows Anonymous – Marianne Simon

Welcome to Widows Anonymous, a space where five women can share what they are really feeling. Not the pretty lace hanky, tidy sorrow that is expected of women, but the wretched, ugly, heartbreaking grief that is losing a partner. It is a wild ride as contradictory feelings swing from moment to moment, and these women grasp to adjust to their new reality.

Along the way, there is sorrow, but there is also absurd humor. There is a new-found freedom to speak of things they did not dare, and there is an odd wonder at the women they are becoming.

Once upon a time they were wives, now they are widows. Who will they become as they learn to leave the labels behind?

Marianne’s show is grace and truth in motion. You can’t take your eyes off her because she’s just that honest and pure on the stage. The show is moving and raw as expected AND there there are beautiful moments of laughter, hope, and sweet joy that come forward as each character speaks her truth and expresses her innermost life. I cried with the characters, giggled with some of them, cheered, and most of all I felt such reverence for the human journey. This is why I go to the theater- to feel it all. And Marianne’s soul has a way of touching every corner of the heart. I’m so grateful I got to experience this piece. Bravo!!!

Christina Dunbar

This was a wonderfully moving and profoundly courageous show that will linger for a long time after. I was so moved by Marianne’ deeply human and intimate portrayal of the different aspects of grief; of the messiness, the absurdity (and hidden humour), the unpredictability, the loneliness- reminding us how so much of it remains unspoken in our society. I cried and belly-laughed and left deeply moved.

Nele Vandesmissen

Unlike other shows I have seen on the topic, this one was searingly truthful and without clichés, but with observed moments that even those not in the Club would recognize as utterly genuine. Those unexpected details drive the show with a vibrant performance breathing life and urgency to the human need to not simply survive but to regenerate.

Wendy Sweetlove

Marianne is a mesmerizing and powerful performer. She fully embodies her characters and goes deep, taking us on a journey. Her wit, lyrical skill, and vulnerability keep me on the edge of my seat, watching her every move, wanting more.

Kerry Glover

Marianne is an exhilarating performer. Equal parts vulnerable, masterful and graceful – with hints of humor peppered throughout – her performance was gripping. Her subject matter important. A must-watch for all!

Poignant, timely, emotional, gripping!

Lisa Steadman

Interview I did while preparing for the show:

https://esme.com/resources/bereavement/marianne-simons-widows-anonymous-a-one-woman-play-about-grief