Stage West comes to Dallas

By Taylor Mayad Powell

Dallas Theater Center presents “Primary Trust,” a 2024 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama, which opened on Feb. 27, at Bryant Hall on the campus of the Kalita Humphreys Theater (3400 Blackburn St., Dallas, Texas 75219). Due to early demand, the show has been extended through March 23. The play is a co-production with Stage West Theatre of Fort Worth.

The heartfelt drama is told through the lens of 38-year-old Kenneth, a bookstore worker who lives in a small town in upstate New York and spends his evenings sipping Mai Tais with his best friend, Bert, at the local tiki bar. But when Kenneth is unexpectedly laid off, the quiet life he knows is thrown into a tailspin, as he sets out on a journey of self-discovery. Courage gives way to transformation in this story about old friends, new beginnings and the good in being there for one another.

This production launches a multi-year collaboration between DTC and Stage West Theatre in Fort Worth.

“We are honored to partner with Stage West Theatre,” said Moriarty. “This partnership will allow us to share our work with more people across two cities while providing greater creative opportunities for artists.”

“‘Primary Trust,’ by Eboni Booth, is not only brand-new, it is one of the most sought-after plays in America right now,” said Dana Schultes, executive producer of Stage West Theatre. “This is a play that will put a smile on your face and warmth in your heart and remind you of what it is to be connected to others in your community.”

The comedic drama, which runs 95 minutes with no intermission, is recommended for ages 13 and up. This production uses haze and herbal cigarettes and contains adult language, mentions of death, being orphaned, job loss, and displays of depression and loneliness.

Tickets for “Primary Trust” are on sale now. Free parking is available on the Kalita Humphreys Theater campus. Go to the website dallastheatercenter.org for information or tickets.