The production opened April 16 following previews that began April 8.  

Draper specialized in character-driven monologues, which she first performed in drawing rooms. Despite the idea that performing onstage was not considered acceptable in her time, Draper pursued a successful career. Her work is credited as inspiring Lily Tomlin, John Lithgow, Tom Waits, Charles Busch, Julia Sweeney, Simon Callow and Charles Nelson Reilly.

"I am in awe of Ruth Draper," Bening said in a previous statement. "Performing these monologues is a great honor for me, and I look forward to the formidable challenge of breathing life into these stunning pieces."

The production features some of Draper's well-known works, including The Italian Lesson, Doctors and Diets, A Debutante at a Dance and A Class in Greek Poise.

"Draper's uncanny ability, while alone on stage, to shift between many characters brought awe to actors, royalty and throngs of crowds for decades," press notes state. "Now, Annette Bening makes these timeless monologues her own — highlighting their continued influence on audiences and artists alike. Meet the harried society woman, the hostess, the debutante and the instructress of poise. Like Draper before her, Bening embraces and embodies these monologues in a tour-de-force premiere."

Bening is a four-time Academy Award nominee for her work in "The Grifters," "American Beauty," "Being Julia" and "The Kids Are All Right." The Tony Award nominee's stage work includes Coastal Disturbances, The Cherry Orchard, Talking Heads, Hedda Gabler, Medea and The Female of the Species.

Visit geffenplayhouse.com for more information.