Does a secret lost chapter of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby really exist? Is it hidden inside the Manhattan brownstone of Isobel Hastings Hoyt, a reclusive former actress who once glittered at the center of 1920s American literary salons? And can an ambitious young scholar named Tom extract the truth before time runs out?
Theatergoers will find out this August as WilsonvilleSTAGE presents A.R. Gurney’s tender, witty, and thought-provoking comedy-drama, The Golden Age, at the Tualatin Heritage Center.
Inspired by Henry James’ classic novella The Aspern Papers, Gurney’s play spins a charming tale of literary intrigue, old rivalries, family ties, and yes—even a mysterious cat. When Tom prods Isobel to release her legendary memorabilia to financially benefit her eccentric granddaughter, Virginia, long-buried secrets from the Jazz Age come to light.
Directed by WilsonvilleSTAGE board member, professional actress, and Tualatin resident Janet Steiger Carr, the production features a cast of three local veteran performers: Phyllis Lang as Isobel, Emma Heesacker as Virginia, and Jeff Gardner as Tom.
The Golden Age marks the second production in WilsonvilleSTAGE’s 2026 mainstage season following its successful spring run of Other Desert Cities. While the company has staged performances at the Tualatin Heritage Center for seven years, 2026 represents its first full, post-pandemic season in partnership with the Tualatin Historical Society.
The production opens Aug. 14 and runs through Aug. 30 at the Tualatin Heritage Center, located at 8700 SW Sweek Drive. Performances include evening shows at 7:30 p.m. alongside select weekend matinees at 2:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students and seniors. For exact showtimes and ticket purchases, visit wilsonvillestage.org.
WilsonvilleSTAGE is dedicated to bringing intimate, high-quality live theater to local audiences. Run entirely by local theater artists and passionate volunteers, the nonprofit organization relies on ticket sales, donations, and community partnerships to keep local performing arts accessible and thriving across Tualatin, Wilsonville, and neighboring communities.
