A true story of gender cannibalism, set to music

Once upon a vine, Rose Jarboe’s aunt revealed that Rose not only had a twin sister in the womb, but that Rose consumed her: “You ate her. That’s why you are the way you are.” This was a lot for Rose to swallow! In this musical shrine to the consumed twin, named Rose, Rose welcomes you into a feast of gender through song, storytelling, and a full plate of wordplay. 

Featuring all original music written in collaboration with Emily Bate, Rose Jarboe, and Pax Ressler. 

Rose was commissioned by Works & Process and developed in collaboration with The Bearded Ladies Cabaret. The work was created during the pandemic in Works & Process bubble residencies at Mount Tremper Arts and Bethany Arts Community, with the support of the Mellon Foundation and Doris Duke Foundation. Early iterations of Rose were presented by Works & Process in the Guggenheim Rotunda (2021) Guggenheim Theater (2022), and CulturalDC (2022.) Rolling World Premiere at FringeArts (2023), La MaMa ETC (2024), and Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company (2024).

Content Transparency: This performance includes themes of fetal mortality and growing up queer in Michigan in the 90s, some graphic eating imagery and cannibal humor.

"melodic, bespangled, generous show.” —Vulture

“A show about gender cannibals, adorned by tender, frisky music." —The New York Times

"enveloping cabaret...which fosters a sense of togetherness even on a unique personal journey…I did not know how much I needed (Rose) Jarboe’s show.” —American Theater Magazine

Scale: Small/Medium

Approximate weekly guarantee: There are two versions of ROSE, designed for black box and proscenium theatres. The show travels in a small box truck, and has a travel company of 12, cutting down to 8 after opening, OR there is a a two person version of the show with a touring company of 5.

Length: 75 minutes, no intermission

REVIEWS

The Times

WhatsOnStage