Ted Lange of “The Love Boat” chatted about his new Off-Broadway show “Lady Patriot,” which is being performed at New York City’s Theatre Row this September.
The synopsis is: The inner sanctum of Confederate president Jefferson Davis has been breached. Information is leaking to the enemy. Who is the spy? No one is privy to this information except Jefferson’s advisors, and they are beyond repute.
Based on a true story, “Lady Patriot” reveals an intimate look into the prejudices and patriotism of three ladies who lived during the Civil War: Varina Davis, Elizabeth Van Lew and Mary Bowser.
“Lady Patriot” combines Ted Lange’s signature comedy and drama as it peels away traditional stereotypes prevalent in the South during the Confederacy.
How did “Lady Patriot” come about?
I was given a book to read by a poker buddy, Jack Kaplan, who is also a writer.The book is entitled ‘Southern Lady, Yankee Spy’ by Elizabeth Varon.
There is a character in the book named Mary Bowser. She is a black slave girl who can read and write. She is placed in the Confederate White House to help the First Lady, Varina Davis and Mary is a spy for the Union.
I focus on Elizabeth Van Lew, Mary Bowser and Varina Davis. My play, “Lady Patriot” is about those three women, and who is a patriot.
What was it like reuniting with Jill Whelan and Fred Grandy?
Working with Fred and Jill is a great treat. First of all we are friends. Jill grew up with us learning her craft. Fred and I recently did a stage version of “I’m Not Rappaport.”
Jill joined us and she played Fred’s daughter.We had a lot of fun working together . I wanted to repeat that good time we all had.
I asked them to come join me in NYC and be a part of my production of “Lady Patriot.” It is one of my favorite plays. They fit the roles so well.
What did this show teach you about yourself?
This show taught me about the hidden history of the Civil War. I learned of the bravery of all American people.
I learned I was not for the South winning but I had to write from the Varina Davis point of View. Writing gave me a greater understanding of the Confederate ideals.
It was hard to write because I disagree but I had to put myself in their shoes. I learned that I can write to support the theme of the play and not succumb to propaganda.
How was your experience on “The Love Boat” back in the day?
My journey as actor in “The Love Boat” was the best experience I ever had. I wanted to be a TV Director and “Love Boat” afforded me that opportunity.
I also wanted to be a writer and I learned my skills as a playwright by writing episodes of our show.
What do your plans for the future include?
My plans for the future include… finding theatres to do my plays. I have written 27 plays and they cover a lot of areas. Not just black history, and black comedy.
I have written three musicals and I am currently working on a fourth. I’ve written about great moments in European history. Such as Michelangelo carving the David and I’ve written three plays about Shakespeare.
My play “Shakespeare over my Shoulder” will be produced in San Francisco in the spring of 2026 at the San Francisco African-American Shakespeare Company.
What is your advice for young and emerging actors and filmmakers?
My advice to Young actors and Film makers is don’t wait to be discovered. Act whenever and wherever you can. Each time you step on to the stage you learn something.
To film makers I say start small and build. Make movies. A two minute film, then a five-minute film. Work your way up to a half hour film.
What does the word success mean to you? (My favorite question)
Success means getting up in the morning and not having to go to a straight job. I get to think about art and create.
I get to make a living at acting, or directing or writing. I try to live within my means so I don’t lose that gift.
What would you like to tell our readers about “Lady Patriot”? (What’s the one thing you want them to get out of it?
I want your readers to know I did a lot of research to put this play together. I print my bibliography because some times audiences don’t agree with the historical facts.
I went through 27 books and bios to get the information. History can be fun and entertaining. I think audiences are going to really love and enjoy this historical ride.
To learn more about the Off-Broadway play “Lady Patriot,” check out its official homepage.
