Uncle Julie

Uncle Julie was Rausch’s final play. In the midst of writing it, Rausch’s health issues worsened. Nevertheless, she continued working and completed the script. In early 2017 Rausch learned that no further medical treatment could stave off her decline.

Though weak and wheelchair-bound, Rausch consulted at rehearsals and attended the premiere of Uncle Julie. She glowed with pride in her friend, director Karen Berman, and the production’s cast. She was, as always, gracious with her friends and colleagues, and she basked in the love the audience showed for her and her work.

The final moment of the play was particularly poignant. Sarah, surrounded by the smiling visages of her beloved aunts and uncles, says, “Sometimes in the middle of the night they come to me in dreams.”