Willa Cather: An American Voice
Willa Cather (1873–1947) was one of the most singular American novelists of the twentieth century. The author of twelve novels—including several enduring masterpieces, My Ántonia, The Professor’s House, and Death Comes for the Archbishop—she broke new ground as an artist by illuminating ordinary lives and struggles, lending dignity and significance to her characters’ inner worlds.
Join Los Angeles–based actors Linda Bisesti and Matt Reidy for a lively reading of selections from Willa Cather’s fiction, criticism, and letters.
Peter Cipkowski, President of the Willa Cather Foundation, UCLA professor and part-time Hillsdale resident, will say a few words before the reading.
About the Readers:
Linda Bisesti
Linda Bisesti is a SAG-AFTRA and AEA actor and voice professional. She recently received the Best Supporting Actor award at the Marina del Rey Film Festival for Billy Comes Home, and her work in Killing Time was featured at the Sundance Film Festival. Her television credits include recurring roles on The Conners, Ratched, Criminal Minds, and How to Get Away with Murder. Regional theater highlights include Shear Madness, Inspecting Carol (Backstage Award for Best Comic Performance), Steel Magnolias, and performances as Goneril in King Lear and Tamora in Titus Andronicus. She is also a Designated Linklater Voice Teacher and voice and accent coach.
Matthew Reidy
Matthew Reidy is a SAG-AFTRA and AEA actor, writer, and director whose short film Billy Comes Home won Best Drama Short at the 2024 Marina del Rey Film Festival. His stage credits include King Lear, Titus Andronicus, Romeo and Juliet, Julius Caesar, Hamlet, Laughter on the 23rd Floor, and Brighton Beach Memoirs. His television and film appearances include roles in Transparent, The Aviator, From Hollywood to Rose, and Tremors: The Series.