Meet the cast of Helen of the West by Susan Swavely.

Directed by Peter Hardy. 🎭 Winner of the 2026 Essential Theatre Playwriting Award, Helen of the West is a rich re-imagining of the fabled story of Helen of Troy, now seen as a mail order bride in the American West. Elaine Wadsworth (Aphrodite/Choreographer) first worked with Peter Hardy in a small role in Essential Theatre’s Cinders in 1992 in this same space. In the interim, Elaine performed Titania/Hippolyta, Nerissa, and Nurse at The Atlanta Shakespeare Tavern, danced the role of Carmen with the Georgia Ballet, and danced and choreographed for Lee Harper with The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Most recently, she starred in the film A Key to the Plot, produced and written by Peter Hardy and Essential Cinema. Little did they know that 34 years after meeting, they would be married. She is grateful for Peter’s belief in her and partnership and love. For schedule and tickets, visit essentialtheatre.com