Douglas S. Hall directs the actress-writer in the 70-minute solo play that began performances Nov. 9 at Theatre Row's Kirk Theatre. R.H. Prince presents the run slated through Dec. 2.

Set in the dressing room of the actress who rivaled her contemporary Sarah Bernhardt, the story of Duse's "grand accomplishments and intimate details of [her] colorful life" is told by Nina, her longtime dresser (of 26 years), "while Duse is performing on stage in Henrik Ibsen's Hedda Gabler."

Playwright-performer Bagnasco — who appeared in the popular Italian television series "Passioni" — moved to New York City in the 1980's and has since performed in Pirandello's The Vice, Mario Fratti's The Fourth, Agatha Christie's The Hollow and Verdict. She adapted Annibale Ruccello's Anna Cappelli and co-wrote and performed her autobiographical one-woman show, Made in Italy.

The Duse's Fever design team features Kevin Judge (set), Shawn E. Boyle (lighting), Davide Borella (costumes) and Jeremy Lee (sound).

Tickets to Duse's Fever at the Kirk Theatre (410 West 42nd Street) can be obtained by calling (212) 279-4200 or online at dusesfever.com.