BRIDGET IN MANHATTAN

SHOW TITLE:

Bridget in Manhattan

CREATOR:

Niamh Gormley

BACKGROUND & KEY CREDITS:

Niamh Gormley, alumnus of the Sundance Collab “from Outline to Pilot” is a dedicated storyteller with a deep connection to the series' historical context, bringing to life the real stories of her ancestors intertwined with significant historical events and characters. Niamh has been researching the socio-political backdrop of 1920s Manhattan for several years, aiming to highlight the struggles and triumphs of women during this transformative era.

FORMAT:

A 6-part mini-series streaming on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, each episode lasting approximately 50 minutes, focusing on historical drama and strong female leads.

LOGLINE:

In 1920s New York, an Irish violinist, masquerading as an upper-class musician, navigates high society and the city's underbelly, challenging societal constraints with her music and forging deep, unlikely friendships amidst the backdrop of prohibition-era turbulence.

SYNOPSIS:

Set against the vibrant heartbeat of 1920s New York, "Bridget in Manhattan" tells the story of Beatrice Campbell, a dazzling Irish violinist who uses her musical talents to ascend the social ladder in Manhattan. Behind her facade of Upper East-side elegance, Beatrice hides her true identity, Bridget, an Irish immigrant caught between the worlds of classical music, the emerging jazz scene, traditional irish roots and her involvement in the political underground. The series weaves together the real-life stories of women who fought against societal expectations, as they journey toward empowerment through friendship, music, and love.

EPISODE BREAKDOWNS:

Series 1 of “Bridget in Manhattan," stretches the arc across 6 episodes, with an emphasis on different plot themes:

EPISODE 1 - The New World: Bridget, grappling with the grief of her parents' tragic deaths, arrives in New York with her brother Edmund. She reinvents herself as Beatrice Campbell, adopting a new identity to escape her past and embrace the opportunities of the Jazz Age. Her acceptance into the prestigious New York Institute of Musical Art, sponsored by Anne Tracy Morgan, marks her entry into high society. Themes of identity and reinvention are explored as Bridget begins to navigate the complexities of her new life.

EPISODE 2 - The Masquerade: As Beatrice, Bridget quickly ascends within Manhattan's elite circles, attending lavish parties and high-profile concerts. Here, her relationship with Seb Van Der Meer, a European composer blossoms. He challenges her musical ideas but slowly grows to respect her talent. Meanwhile, her brother Edmund becomes more involved in the Irish independence movement in America, adding a layer of political intrigue. This episode explores themes of deception and the high stakes of living a lie, as Bridget balances her dual identity with new relationships.

EPISODE 3 - Secrets and Lies: Under the mentorship of Ellen O’Byrne, Bridget's success with Columbia records first Irish music label brings her into the limelight, making it increasingly difficult to maintain her façade. Her friendship with Belle Da Costa Greene, a librarian with her own secrets, grows deeper. When Belle discovers Bridget's true background, the bond they share becomes complicated by mutual secrets. This episode delves into the themes of trust, betrayal, and the heavy burden of secrets in a world where everyone has something to hide.

EPISODE 4 - Shadows of the Past: Bridget's past catches up with her when Belle threatens to expose her identity. Meanwhile, political tensions rise, and Edmund's activities with the Irish nationalists draw unwanted attention, endangering both siblings. Bridget must navigate the dangerous waters of loyalty and espionage. This episode focuses on the themes of loyalty and the fight for personal and political freedom.

EPISODE 5 - Harmonies of Change: Bridget, now established in the New York music scene, receives an invitation to the prestigious American Conservatory at Fontainebleau, France, for the summer of 1921. The episode follows her awe-inspiring journey across the Atlantic, where she immerses herself in the best of French musical education under the guidance of celebrated composers and musicians. This environment, rich with the avant-garde and the brilliance of artists like Picasso and Chagall, serves as a backdrop for her evolving musical style. Bridget's interactions with these legendary figures, set within the storied halls of Fontainebleau, prompt her to rethink her artistic expressions, blending the classical, the new rhythms of jazz, and the traditional Irish melodies she holds dear. The episode explores themes of artistic revolution and the intersection of diverse cultural influences shaping the arts during the post-war period.

EPISODE 6 – Summer in Fontainebleau: As the summer progresses, Bridget's experiences at Fontainebleau deeply influence her music and self-perception. Her relationship with Seb blossoms amidst the backdrop of the school's inspiring setting, as they collaborate and challenge each other's musical ideas. Bridget's talent and innovative approach draw attention, and she begins to feel the pull between her American success and European acclaim. The season finale culminates in a public performance at Fontainebleau, attended by some of the most notable figures of the art and music world. This episode reinforces the overarching themes of love, acceptance, and the quest for a harmonious life that honours one's heritage and personal growth.

Characters:

Except for Bridget, Edmund, and Seb all of the characters in Bridget in Manhattan, were key real life characters from the era.

Bridget (Beatrice) Campbell

Description: A gifted composer and multi-instrumentalist who moves to New York on a whim, suffering from the grief of losing her mother and father. After experiencing bigotry and discrimination she adopts a new identity to “hide her Irishness”. Under the guise of Beatrice Campbell, an Ulster Scots Presbyterian, she escapes the violence of the Irish War of Independence and the personal tragedies of the lake drowning of her parents. Her musical talent and innovative blend of Celtic rhythms with classical and jazz influences catapult her into New York's elite musical and social circles.

Character Arc: Bridget struggles with her dual identity, the pressure of her secret origins, and her desire to succeed in a new world. Her journey involves navigating complex relationships, societal expectations, and her own aspirations in music and personal growth.

Anne Tracy Morgan

Description: Daughter of the financier J.P. Morgan, Anne is a powerful and influential figure in New York society. She is a patron of the arts and a supporter of women's rights, using her position to promote cultural and social change.

Character Arc: Anne is portrayed as a mentor and protector to Bridget, guiding her through the intricacies of high society and the music industry. Her character embodies the struggles and successes of progressive women in the early 20th century. She is also hiding her homosexuality.

Ellen O’Byrne

Description: A self-made millionaire in the Irish traditional music scene in New York. Ellen is set to launch the world’s first Irish music label with Columbia Records, representing the entrepreneurial spirit and cultural heritage of the Irish diaspora.

Character Arc: Ellen acts as another mentor to Bridget, connecting her with the vibrant community of Irish musicians and helping her navigate her identity and career in music.

Belle Da Costa Greene

Description: The Morgan family’s librarian, a brilliant intellectual and a key figure in the New York art scene is responsible for curating the J.P. Morgan Library. Though publicly she presents as a white woman, she is secretly of African American descent, which could jeopardize her career and social standing if discovered.

Character Arc: Belle's character deals with the pressures of passing in a racially divided society while wielding considerable influence over the city’s cultural treasures. Her interactions with Bridget and Anne Morgan highlight themes of identity, secrecy, and societal expectations.

Bourke Cockran

Description: A charismatic and influential Democratic Senator of the era. Cockran was an Irish immigrant who arrived in New York aged 17, started life as a department store Porter and took evening classes to become one of New York’s most successful lawyers. He was known for his eloquent speeches and connections in both political and social circles. Cockran has Irish roots and holds a sympathetic stance towards Irish independence. W. Bourke Cockran, The Forgotten Democratic Congressman Who Championed Churchill & Free Trade (thedailybeast.com)

Character Arc: Cockran navigates the complex political landscape of New York, trying to balance his support for Irish independence with his position in American politics. He becomes a crucial ally to Edmund and indirectly to Bridget, providing a link between her personal and public lives.

Seb Van Der Meer

Description: A sophisticated and wealthy composer educated in Europe's best conservatories. Seb represents the intersection of old-world privilege and newworld innovation.

Character Arc: Initially skeptical of Bridget’s unconventional methods, Seb's journey involves recognizing and respecting Bridget’s talents and eventually developing a romantic interest in her. His character explores themes of artistic integrity and personal evolution.

Edmund Campbell

Description: Bridget's brother, a passionate and committed Irish nationalist involved in the struggle for Irish independence. He flees to New York to escape British persecution and to garner international support for the cause.

Character Arc: Edmund's storyline provides a stark contrast to Bridget’s, filled with political intrigue and personal danger. His actions in New York mirror the violent struggle back home, highlighting the global implications of Ireland’s fight for freedom.

Charles Tegart

Description: An assistant to Colonel Ormonde Winter, depicted as a figure of authority within the British secret service operations in Ireland. His character embodies the British colonial perspective, with a military background and a strategic mind focused on suppressing the Irish revolutionary movements.

Character Arc: Tegart is involved in the international pursuit of Edmund, providing a direct threat to the Campbell siblings. His actions and decisions illustrate the broader conflicts between the British government and Irish nationalists.

Colonel Ormonde de l'Epee Winter

Description: A former soldier and the mastermind behind the British secret service in Ireland, known for his cunning and ruthless tactics. His character is portrayed as a pivotal antagonist in the struggle for Irish independence.

Character Arc: Winter orchestrates efforts to quell Irish revolutionary activities both domestically and abroad, representing the imperialistic and oppressive forces that Edmund and other Irish characters are fighting against. His pursuit of Edmund adds a layer of danger and urgency to the storyline.