Giulia: The Poison Queen of Palermo event image
Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC), Financial District, Manhattan

Giulia: The Poison Queen of Palermo

Jennifer Nettles' world-premiere musical about Giulia Tofana — the Palermo apothecary who poisoned abusive husbands — has its opening night at PAC NYC.

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World premiereOpening nightJennifer Nettles

Sugarland's Jennifer Nettles wrote and stars in this new musical about history's most prolific poisoner — Giulia Tofana, whose undetectable Aqua Tofana became a secret weapon for 17th-century women trapped in violent marriages. Mary Zimmerman, the Tony-winning director of Metamorphoses, stages the true story as one act of self-defense rippling into a citywide sisterhood of casualties and conspirators. Catching it on opening night at Ground Zero's striking marble-cube theater means seeing a possi

What to expect

A dark, sensual new musical staged in PAC NYC's flexible theater, blending Nettles' country-rooted songwriting with Austin McCormick's baroque-burlesque choreography. Opening night draws an industry-heavy crowd; expect a charged house and a curtain call with the creative team in the building.

Good to know

  • PAC NYC is at 251 Fulton Street, next to the Oculus — nearly every downtown line (A/C, E, R/W, 2/3, 4/5) stops within a block
  • The translucent marble facade glows after dark — arrive early for the lobby and terrace views
  • Themes of domestic abuse and poisoning make this one for adults and older teens
  • The theater is fully wheelchair accessible with assistive listening available
  • Lower-priced seats for the run sell first; weeknights later in July are easier than opening weekend

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Common questions

Is this a true story?

Yes — Giulia Tofana was a real 17th-century Italian poisoner whose Aqua Tofana was linked to hundreds of deaths, mostly of abusive husbands.

Does Jennifer Nettles perform in the show?

Yes — the Grammy-winning Sugarland singer wrote the book, music and lyrics and leads the cast.

How long does the show run at PAC NYC?

It's a limited world-premiere engagement running through late July — this is its official opening night.