Archive: Becoming Dr. Ruth

September 12 – October 19, 2014

Hanover Tavern

By Mark St. Germain
Directed by Bruce Miller

Starring Eileen DeSandre



Critics LOVE Becoming Dr. Ruth

“You are going to love Becoming Dr. Ruth.”
“Eileen DeSandre...embodies Dr. Ruth, perfectly replicating her mannerisms and accent.”
“She takes you on an emotional journey filled with memories and laughter. She is mesmerizing to watch.”

Richmond Family Magazine

“DeSandre does marvelous work capturing her essence as well as her iconic voice.”
“Compelling!”

Style Weekly

“A tale worth telling, filled with challenges, romance, humor, and the endurance and hopefulness of the human spirit.”
“DeSandre is perfect for the part.”

Richmond Times-Dispatch


This heartwarming one-woman show retells the incredible life of Dr. Ruth Westheimer, the pioneering radio and television sex therapist. From fleeing the Nazis in the Kindertransport and joining the Haganah in Jerusalem as a scout and sniper, to her struggles to succeed as a single mother coming to America, this biographical account is filled with the humor, honesty and life-affirming spirit of Karola Ruth Siegel, the girl who became “Dr. Ruth”.

Suggested for ages 14 and up.

Meet the Cast

Rep is delighted to welcome Eileen DeSandre in her debut performance on the Richmond stage. A veteran resident actor with over 25 credits at Oregon Shakespeare Festival, DeSandre is the recipient of the Portland Drammy for Best Actress in a leading role for her portrayal of Miss Helen in The Road to Mecca at Profile Theatre. Her work as been seen on stages across the country including Rubicon Theatre, Oregon Bach Festival, Innovation Theatre Works, Milwaukee Rep, and Fulton Opera House. Eileen is thrilled to spend time with Dr. Ruth. “When I read the script of Becoming Dr. Ruth, I was fascinated by the extraordinary events of her life, the way Dr. Ruth has become enriched through her experiences and by her joy and willingness to share.


Virginia Rep was delighted to welcome the real Dr. Ruth to Richmond.

Dr. Ruth was a special guest at the performance on September 20th and participated in a talkback. On Sunday, September 21, she spoke to a sold out crowd at the Weinstein JCC.

Dr Ruth

Dr. Monroe E. Harris and Dr. Ruth