BY THE LIGHT OF TIFFANY: A Meeting with Clara Driscoll

Award-winning author, playwright and classically trained actress Leanna Renee Hieber channels the talented artist Clara Wolcott Driscoll, designer of iconic Tiffany lamps and the manager of the Women’s Glass Cutting Department of Tiffany Studios from the late 19th century to 1909. Infused with passion and dedication, By the Light of Tiffany is a one hour, one-woman theatrical presentation adapted from Driscoll’s personal letters, historical record and inspiring insights. This 'meeting with the artist' showcases the vitality, innovation and importance of women in the decorative arts movement. 

A native of Tallmadge, Ohio, Driscoll was encouraged by a loving, tight-knit family to pursue higher education. After studying at the Cleveland Institute of Art then the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, she was quickly hired by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Driscoll oversaw the “Tiffany Girls” and herself designed many of Tiffany’s most famous items, including the Dragonfly, Wisteria, and Daffodil lamps. Driscoll won first place for her Dragonfly Lamp design at the Paris Exposition in 1900 and was noted as one of the highest paid women of the Gilded Age (around $10,000 per year), at a time when women made on average 60% less than men. She oversaw over 50 women at the department’s height, during the Studio's most prosperous years. By the Light of Tiffany opens a window into a lively life devoted to art, light and beauty.

Leanna Renee Hieber grew up in Hamilton, Ohio and graduated from Miami University with a BFA in theatre performance and a focus in the 19^th Century. A member of the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s first Young Company, she went on to work in regional theatres around the country doing Shakespeare, classical theatre and adapting 19^th century literature for the professional stage. An award-winning, critically acclaimed author of over 10 Historical Fantasy novels such as the Strangely Beautiful saga, considered a foundation work of Gaslamp Fantasy by Tor Books and The Spectral City, her latest novels with Kensington Books. Her work has been featured in notable anthologies, her books have been included national book club editions and translated into many languages. A New York City resident for twelve years, she is a licensed New York City tour guide, a member of AEA, SAG-AFTRA and has been featured in film and television on shows like Boardwalk Empire and Mysteries at the Museum. She is represented by Sara Megibow and Chelsea Hensley of KT Literary. An extra special thanks to Clara's relative Linda Alexander for all her help, insights and resources.

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