I Was Amelia Earhart's Sister: Meet Muriel Morrissey

Jessa Piaia becomes Amelia Earhart’s sister. Her portrayals celebrate women of the past whose diverse lives span three centuries. In her poignant and inspiring vignettes, Jessa reveals the accomplishments, struggles and contributions of different women to American History.

Jessa depicts Amelia’s life through third person story telling as her sister, Muriel Earhart Morrissey (1899-1998) against the historical events and issues of the day. The show takes place in 1963 when Muriel wrote a biography of her famous sister, Amelia Earhart. The program is 35 minutes long with a Q & A with Jessa after. As well as a collection of photographs, news clippings, and articles written by and about Amelia Earhart will be on display after the performance.

Jessa Piaia is a graduate from UMASS, Boston and currently works at Harvard University. She has studied performance at London’s Oval House Theatre. Her first portrayal of Amelia Earhart was staged at the International Women’s Day Festival in Milwaukee in 1978. She conducts most of her research through the Schlesinger Library at Radcliffe Institute which specializes in the history of women in America.

Photo Credit: R.Lee Post