Directed by Steve Cosson, the William Luce solo play began previews Oct. 7 prior to an official opening Oct. 19. Upon closing, it has played 14 previews and 41 regular performances.

"In The Belle of Amherst, Emily Dickinson welcomes audiences into her lifelong Amherst homestead in mid-19th century Massachusetts," press notes state. "While Dickinson found solace in solitude through much of her life, acclaimed playwright William Luce weaves her poems, diaries, and letters into a one-woman portrait of one of America’s greatest and most prolific poets, mixing Dickinson’s encounters with close friends and family with the poet’s own, often amusing observations. The Belle Of Amherst illuminates a brilliant wordsmith through the words she left behind."

Richardson starred on the TV show "Nip/Tuck" from 2003-10. Her stage work includes Madame Melville, Ivanov, Side Effects and The Lady From the Sea. Her film credits include "Wetherby," "Drowning By Numbers," "101 Dalmatians" and "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo." Read Playbill.com's interview with the star here.

The play, which was produced on Broadway in 1976, starring Tony winner Julie Harris, met with mixed critical responses. Both the 1976 and 2014 productions were presented by Don Gregory.

The creative team includes Antje Ellermann (scenic design), William Ivey Long (costume design), David Weiner (lighting design) and Daniel Kluger (sound design).

The Westside Theatre is located at 407 West 43rd Street. Visit BelleOfAmherstPlay.com for more information.