“The Last Word”, written by Jan Miller Corran and directed by Kate Johnston, premiered at the Garry Marshall Theater in Burbank for a limited engagement from November 7-17, 2019. Barbara starred as Jillian Harper. “The Last Word”, is the story of highly successful author Brett Harper, who has harbored a deep secret for more than 30 years. Brett’s wife and muse Jillian has anonymously written the last chapters of each of Brett’s award-winning novels. But since her tragic death, Brett is struggling to finish his latest book. Jillian is no longer in the picture. Or is she?

“The Last Word” is a richly woven dramedy that hooks audiences with laughter, heartbreak and poignant truths that resonate long after the curtain comes down. Who hasn’t struggled with the loss of someone they love? Who hasn’t wrestled with the “what ifs”, regretted things left unsaid, truths left unspoken, or questions not asked or answered? But… what if you got a second chance to put things right? To find closure and move on? Because, as the character Jillian so brilliantly says in the play, “In death there are no reasons not to tell the truth.”

“I can’t tell you how much I have loved being in this production of “The Last Word”… and how much I needed to do this play. As an actor, I’ve learned that projects come into my life for a reason, whether it’s for me to resolve a current issue in life, or to understand what has happened in the past. After reading the play through the first time, I literally got goosebumps. I was riveted. I cried, I laughed, and I was just was so moved by the profound truths of the material and the characters. I already knew this woman “Jillian,” and knew that I wanted to be the one to bring her to life.” – Barbara Niven

“I was impressed with Barbara Niven from the moment I saw her bring Marilyn Monroe to life in “The Rat Pack”. Then in 2013 a mutual friend introduced us and from that day forward, I was smitten. When I wrote “The Last Word” I wrote it specifically with Barbara in mind as the lead character, Jillian. She exudes that amazing combination of strength, vulnerability, softness and iron will that Jillian embodies. And this is Barbara in real life. For me, no one else could be Jillian except Barbara Niven.” – Jan Miller Corran (Writer/Producer “The Last Word”)

“The play’s message is what moves me most. I have loved and lost many loved ones in my life by now, and each time it guts me and takes me through all the emotional “what ifs”. I always wish I could have just one more phone call. One more chance to hold them. The truth of this play will “haunt” audiences (literally!) long after they leave the theater. It’s a lesson on how to truly “Bless and Release.” As Jillian says in the play, “In death there are no reasons not to tell the truth.” – Barbara Niven