Isabella Rossellini to debut show at Gateway in Bellport

The evolution of Isabella Rossellini's one-woman show  is about to take place at The Gateway in Bellport.

Rossellini, who lives in that community, will launch the U.S. tour of her show "Darwin's Smile" at Gateway in two benefit performances for the theater on Aug. 13 and 14. The first show will be followed by a cocktail reception with the star.

"Darwin's Smile" is essentially a 75-minute monologue written by Rossellini in which she blends the worlds of art and science to explore animal behavior. Prepare to be amused as the actress transforms herself into dogs, cats, chickens, peacocks and, of course, Charles Darwin.

“During the COVID-19 lockdown, I had ample time to reflect on my passions for both theater and science. It seemed that these two interests of mine were both distinct and separate: one satisfied my heart, while the other satisfied my brain," Rossellini, 69, said in a statement. "When I understood that they could be integrated, my heart and my brain finally became reconciled and harmonious.“

Tickets for the show are $75, while VIP tickets which include the post-show reception are $150. To reserve, call 631-286-1133 or go to thegateway.org.

Rossellini ("Blue Velvet," "Death Becomes Her") has been a staunch supporter of The Gateway and has done many events to benefit the theater. In 2019, she presented her show "Link Link Circus," which explored the link between humans and animals, at the Gateway. Two years ago, Rossellini appeared on Gateway's virtual series "Sessions With the Stars," where she was interviewed by director of development and public relations Scot Allan.