It was 1878 and Albert Brisbane was paying a call on his brother George and wife Sarah at their home on Main Street in Batavia. Because there was much tension in their relationship, Albert was anxious about how he would be received. Still, he had to pick up a check waiting there for him. Although it was apt to be an awkward visit, he resolved to make the best of it.

This was the situation, in brief, that Albert Brisbane faced as portrayed in a new play entitled Brothers at Odds: The Brisbane Story, written by Derek Maxfield. The play will debut this Friday, June 3rd, at 7:00 PM at the First Presbyterian Church on Main Street in Batavia. Admission is free and no reservations are required.

Now the Batavia City Police Department, the old Brisbane Mansion was built by George Brisbane in 1853 and was home to the prominent family until about World War I, when the village acquired the property. In the near future the police department will vacate the building and relocate – leaving the mansion vacant. The city will then determine the fate of the historic home.

The Landmark Society of Genesee County has determined to try to save the building and advocate for a productive new use for the Brisbane Mansion. To that end the society contacted Maxfield about creating a play to raise public awareness of the issue. After landing a grant from GOART!, the production kicked into high gear.

The play features Derek Maxfield as George Brisbane, Dan Snyder as Albert Brisbane, Quincy Maxfield as Sarah Brisbane, Jess Maxfield as Anna (a servant), and Michael Gosselin as General Emory Upton. There will be three performances – June 3rd, 11th and 15th. All shows will begin at 7:00 PM and will be held at the First Presbyterian Church at 300 E. Main Street in Batavia. Each performance will be followed by a panel discussion and a Q&A session to discuss the fate of the mansion.

Folks with questions may contact Derek Maxfield at rudelystampd@gmail.com.