Edgar Allan Poe

Ages 27 to 40 years old during the show. Edgar is a man of many titles: poet, writer, editor, publisher and critic. Raised as a wealthy southern gentleman, he strives to project grace and refinement regardless of his personal circumstances. Yet his passions are evident upon one meeting with this man. Having lost his parents as a toddler, he yearns for the unconditional love that those with a family enjoy. He spends his life on a high wire balancing his families needs with his ambitious want of fame. Relegated to poverty, he is desperate to be accepted in society, yet his fear of failure sabotages his efforts. Poe made enemies in his life, but none were as formidable as the haunting depression and attraction to drink that emanated from within him.

Virginia Clemm/Poe

Ages 13 to 24 years old during the show. Virginia, Poe's first cousin/wife, is a quirky, selfless optimist who lives her life for the thrill of it.   Rather than hiding from her fears she embraces them with a strange frisson.  Her beloved, Edgar, is an exciting rogue who provides her with harrowing, yet never boring days. Never one for regrets, she is the counterpoint to Edgar’s brooding darkness providing a joy and loving warmth that fuels and protects Edgar.

Maria Poe-Clemm

Ages 46 to 59 years old during the show. Maria, Virginia's mother and Edgar's aunt, shares her daughter's quirkiness and optimism, but her woeful experiences in life have taught her to be wary of decisions. She is the voice of reason and backbone of Edgar Poe's family. Her tireless efforts keep the family alive during Edgar's numerous lean periods.

Fanny Osgood

A 34 year-old poet of considerable talent, she is intelligent, flirtatious and charming. While separated from her husband, she tries to spark a romance with Edgar.

Rufus Griswold

Ages 23 to 35 years old during the show. Griswold, a bookish fellow with a head for business, admires Poe for his talent while resenting him for his charisma and ego. Griswold is a periodical editor and publisher. He is both friend and increasingly jealous rival to Edgar Poe.

Elizabeth Ellet

Ages 25 to 34 year-old during the show. Ellet, poet, historian, author and socialite, wishes to destroy Poe because he turned down her romantic advances. She is shrewd and takes pleasure in other's misfortune. Much of Poe's ill reputation in New York can be attributed to her machinations.

Billy Burton

A 36 year-old actor turned publisher of Burton's Gentleman's Magazine, Burton is a bawdy, extroverted yet shrewd businessman. He is Poe's employer for a period of time

Herman

Ages 18 to 25 year-old during the show. Herman is a bubbly publishing apprentice, aspiring writer and devoted Poe fan.

Mrs. Yarrington

A 40 year-old boarding house owner in Richmond, Virginia and Poe’s nosey landlord.