How did you learn to draw a line that is so ferocious and so supple? There is no question Mademoiselle . . . You are one of us. From unexpected quarters in nineteenth century France, a bright new talent emerges: confident, penniless, and a woman. But circumstance is no obstacle to Suzanne Valadon. For the great Edgar Degas, his ambitious protégée proves the biggest challenge of his life. Timberlake Wertenbaker's The Line premiered at the Arcola Theatre, London, in November 2009.