See ABC’s Janet Davies Become Hillary Clinton at Dunes Theatre
What Happens When Monica Meets Hillary? A New Play Comes to Michigan City
The Story Behind the Stage
Quick Context: In 2021, millions watched the TV series Impeachment: American Crime Story on FX. It told the story of the 1990s Clinton-Lewinsky scandal. Now, a new play asks a fascinating "what if" question.
From TV Screen to Theater Stage
- The TV Show: Impeachment: American Crime Story aired from September to November 2021
- Based On: Jeffrey Toobin’s 1999 book A Vast Conspiracy
- Key Figure: Monica Lewinsky served as a producer on the series
- Star-Studded Cast: Beanie Feldstein as Monica, Clive Owen as Bill Clinton, Edie Falco as Hillary Clinton
Introducing "When Monica Met Hillary"
What Is This Play?
When Monica Met Hillary is a new play by writer Winter Miller that imagines a conversation between two women at the center of one of America’s most famous political scandals.
Performance Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Monday, August 24 at 7:00 PM |
| Location | Dunes Summer Theatre, 288 Shady Oak Drive, Michigan City |
| Ticket Price | $10 |
| How to Buy | Call 219-879-7509 or visit www.dunesarts.org |
Important Update: The theater lost electricity last week, but power has been fully restored and they’re ready for audiences!
Meet the Cast
The play features five talented actresses playing multiple roles:
-
Janet Davies as Hillary Clinton
- Famous Chicago Channel 7 news anchor
- Called "the First Lady of Theatre" at Dunes Arts Foundation
- Previously starred in Misery (2025) and Deathtrap (2026)
-
Danielle Bilderback as Monica Lewinsky
-
Jann Iaco as Marcia Lewis (Monica’s mother)
-
Lindsay Perrine as Huma Abedin
- Hillary’s former White House intern
- Later married former Congressman Anthony Weiner
- Kate Magon as Linda Tripp and other roles
What Makes This Play Special?
A Story Spanning 30 Years
The play covers 13 gripping scenes from:
- 1995: The White House scandal begins
- Presidential campaigns and elections
- Present day: Work against cyberbullying
Multiple Perspectives
Director Michael Lasswell says: "Love them or hate them, this play strives to tell all sides of the story and what happened after the headlines."
Different viewers see different genres:
- Some call it biting political theater
- Others see a suspense thriller
- Some describe it as a twisted rom-com
Big Questions Explored
- What labels do we put on people?
- What happens after the headlines fade?
- How do women’s voices get heard in history?
About the Playwright: Winter Miller
- Age: 53 (same as Monica Lewinsky)
- Background: Journalist and former assistant to Nicholas Kristof (New York Times columnist)
- Current Role: Reporter on The New York Times Metropolitan news desk
- Play Premiere: World premiere at The Colony Theatre in Miami Beach (March 2022)
Dunes Summer Theatre: 75 Years Strong!
Leadership Team
- Elise Kermani — Managing Director, Dunes Arts Foundation
- Steve Scott — Artistic Director (since Fall 2021)
- Director Emeritus from Chicago’s famous Goodman Theater
Save the Date: 75th Anniversary Gala!
Stardust 2101: The Next 75 Years
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | October 24 |
| Location | Great Hall, Purdue University Northwest |
| Ticket Price | $150 |
| Includes | Dinner, open bar, auctions, entertainment |
Gala Purpose: Raising funds for critical improvements including:
- Modernizing the theater interior
- Ensuring full ADA compliance (accessibility for everyone)
- Securing long-term success for future generations
Summary
When Monica Met Hillary brings a fresh theatrical perspective to a story America has debated for decades. Written by journalist-playwright Winter Miller and starring Chicago broadcasting legend Janet Davies as Hillary Clinton, this one-night-only staged reading at the historic Dunes Summer Theatre offers audiences a chance to hear imagined conversations between women who were at the center of a constitutional crisis—and to consider what happened long after the cameras stopped rolling. The theater, celebrating its 75th anniversary season, has recovered from a power outage and is ready to welcome patrons for this $10 special event on August 24th at 7 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a full theatrical production or a reading?
This is a staged reading — actors perform with scripts in hand, focusing on the words and emotions rather than elaborate sets, costumes, or memorization. It’s a common way to present new plays.
Do I need to know the history to enjoy the play?
Not at all! The play provides context through its 13 scenes spanning 30 years. Whether you lived through the 1990s or are learning about it for the first time, the human story at the center is accessible to everyone.
Why is Janet Davies playing Hillary Clinton?
Janet Davies is a beloved Chicago news icon who has become a favorite at Dunes Arts Theatre. After acclaimed performances in Misery and Deathtrap, she brings gravitas and local star power to this challenging role.
Is the theater accessible for people with disabilities?
The theater is currently working toward full ADA compliance as part of their 75th anniversary fundraising goals. For specific accessibility questions about this performance, call 219-879-7509.
Can I still get tickets if I don’t buy in advance?
Tickets are $10 and available by phone (219-879-7509) or online at www.dunesarts.org. Since it’s a one-night-only event in a historic venue, advance purchase is strongly recommended to guarantee a seat.
Article based on reporting by Philip Potempa, journalist, published author, and WJOB 1230 AM radio host. Contact: PhilPotempa@gmail.com