Frank Lloyd Wright and Edgar J. Kaufmann's story of passion, admiration, betrayal, and tragedy comes to life in a theatrical interpretation drawn from letters written by Wright and the Kaufmanns.Rear

Imagine stepping inside the private exchanges between Frank Lloyd Wright, the most influential architect of his time, and his clients, Edgar J. Kaufmann Sr. and his wife, Liliane Kaufmann, tastemakers and owners of Pittsburgh’s largest department store, as they bring to life a masterpiece destined to define the Modern era: Fallingwater.

Designed by Wright in 1935 and completed in 1936, the house becomes an overnight sensation, an icon that transforms perceptions of what architecture can be. As tensions flare and words fly back and forth in a constant stream of correspondence, a powerful friendship between Wright and the Kaufmanns emerges from mutual respect and a shared vision: improving Modern American life through an organic, democratic architecture.

The Kaufmann's patronage of Wright endures for a lifetime and reaches its final act in Palm Springs at the family’s celebrated house designed by Richard Neutra, completed in 1946. Their story unfolds through passion, admiration, betrayal, and tragedy. Yet through every struggle, their collaboration achieves its ultimate triumph in Fallingwater.

Enter their world through an immersive theatrical interpretation drawn from letters written by Wright and the Kaufmanns. After the final moment, join the actors, EMMY Award-winning actor-producer David Millbern, and Fallingwater director Justin Gunther for a discussion and Q&A.

Photo Credits: Fallingwater collection, 1995.384, The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, Frank Lloyd Wright, Julius Shulman, J. Paul Getty Trust, Getty Research Institute (2004.R.10)

Location & Attendee Information

  • What are the appropriate ages for this activity?Person Ages 13 and older
  • Are pets, animals, or service animals permitted?Dog on a leash No pets, service animals permitted
  • Are food and drinks permitted?Food and drink No outside food or drinks
  • What are the mobility considerations for this activity?Person walking Seated activity
  • What type of parking is available?Car Parking & handicap parking available
  • Are restrooms available?Restroom sign Restrooms available
  • Is this an indoor or outdoor activity?Sun Indoor activity
  • What is the policy regarding smoking?Cigarette with smoke No smoking or e-cigarettes
  • What type of ADA accessibility is available?Wheelchair Wheelchair accessible
The organizer of this event is: Modernism Week Annenberg Theater Activity

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