Queen of the Mist1995

Tells, in narrative poetry, the story of Annie Edson Taylor – the first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel and a forgotten American heroine. A 63 year-old teacher facing unemployment and poverty in 1901, Taylor decided to take up the challenge P.T. Barnum had issued and send herself over the Falls as her one hope to reverse her fortunes. Had Taylor been a man or a young beauty, she might have found the fame and fortune she hoped for. Instead, she was ignored and derided, robbed and abandoned by her managers, impersonated by an actress, and eclipsed by Bobby Leach – who was the first man to go over Niagara Falls (ten years after her feat). She died in poverty at the age of 83.

QUEEN OF THE MIST presents the events of Annie's life through impressionistic re-enactments, layered with archival materials. It imaginatively portrays Annie Taylor's daring feat and the ordeals she suffered in the years that followed it. It brings to light a courageous early 20th century woman whose story has been lost to history.

QUEEN OF THE MIST was made at the invitation of and in collaboration with the poet, Joan Murray – and is based on her narrative poems from the book of the same name. Excerpts from these poems, which creatively dramatize Taylor's life, are read by Ms. Murray. Mary Foskett plays Annie Edson Taylor, supported by a cast of 40 actors and extras. Sound design is by Jonathan Duckett.