Writer/Performer
Babette's Feast
conceived and developed by Abigail Killeen
written by Rose Courtney
adapted from the short story by Isak Dinesen
"A glorious production fit for the new millennium. A powerful, delightful story of our shared humanity.” – The Portland Press Herald
“See Babette’s Feast. A lush theatrical celebration of generosity and communal healing.” – New York Magazine
“Earthly delights await! Those familiar with the Oscar-winning Danish film will be able to conjure up visions of blini with caviar and rum sponge cake…and the purity of intention matches the story’s setting in an austere Nordic hamlet. The Feast is about destiny and art, and the joy of living in the now rather than sacrificing for the hereafter.” –The New York Times
“This creation is both beautifully intimate and compellingly open. Here against the backdrop of nothing and everything, the famously spiritual tale of charity, generosity, and gratefulness plays out. The direction and the choreography of movement is precise and dramatic, keeping us engaged and aware of every shuffle and aroma that exists in the flavor of this small town. This play is a tour de force of stylistic intentions and performances as delicious and flavorful as the meal we imagine they are served.” – Times Square Chronicles
Threads Theatre Company in association
with the International Arts Movement:
"The ensemble is extraordinary and many of the actors take on several roles. Standouts include Courtney, who is also the playwright, as Martine. Her understated delivery and humble bearing in contrast with her expressive face and deep emotional life are thrilling to watch." – NYTheatre.com
Portland Stage/Off Broadway:
I Never Sang For My Father
by Robert Anderson
Keen Company
"It’s a joy to see two such old pros as Keir Dullea and Marsha Mason back onstage again and giving very, very fine performances, and Mr. Servitto and Rose Courtney (who plays Alice, Gene’s sister) rise to the high standards set by their senior partners." - Wall Street Journal
"It’s a pleasure to watch old pros – and young ones – at work." – The New Yorker
"It’s then that Rose Courtney shows up, offering the evening’s most striking performance as Alice. Courtney has a way of shaping her oddly formal lines into a sharply etched and extremely convincing argument that, in this family, it’s everyone for himself." – Lighting and Sound America
CYCLE
by Rose Courtney
Cherry Lane Theatre
"This refreshingly sweet dream play feels like an inspired, overdue, and rather brave counterweight to a decade of ‘edge’…calls to mind everything from Pirandello to The Fantasticks." – The Village Voice
"Played exquisitely by the playwright…Ms. Courtney spices up her ingenue’s wide-eyed intensity with a tiny dash of Sex and the City knowingness." – Blogcritics Magazine
"With it’s impossibly charming characters and retro feel, CYCLE all but guarantees that you’ll leave the theatre feeling happier than when you came in." – Show Business Weekly
"CYCLE is a genial, bizarre blend of Frank Capra, Pirandello, and Neil Simon…hilarious." – BackStage
"Rose Courtney’s CYCLE would be a sweet ride for any company…a luscious, enjoyable show." – Show Showdown
"With her powerful natural presence and enchanting voice, Rose Courtney really is gifted." – NYTheatre.com
"The in-the-flesh thrill of Vaudeville is brought to life by CYCLE. This solid jewel of a play transports us through time. In the role of Charlotte, playwright Rose Courtney’s flustered likeability makes us believe she’s not multitalented, though the illusion disappears as soon as she takes her final, well-deserved bow. There is no resisting this journey. CYCLE is a winning combination of heart and wit." – New Theatre Corps
"It’s a modern distaff counterpoint to Pippin…the cast is delightful." – BroadwayWorld.com
"Terrific work…fine music of the era by Rachel Kaufman…unquestionably intrepid and talented cast." – CurtainUp
How High the Moon
by Maureen McDuffy
Dorset Theatre Festival
"The introduction of Dot Sr. and Dot Jr. (the marvelous Rose Courtney) gives the story a thrust and another shade of comedy... Courtney is utterly funny and touching. When she is on stage the proceedings take off." – The Daily Gazette
"Courtney proves herself once again this season to be an especially versatile and appealing performer." – Manchester Journal
"Courtney and Sherman, as visiting mother and daughter, prove hilarious." – The Post-Star