DTC presents Pulitzer Prize-winning drama

From Staff Reports

Written by playwright Eboni Booth, Primary Trust is a touching and inventive dramatic comedy about new beginnings; the play explores the inner and outer lives of a heartbreakingly lonely, 38-year-old man living in the small town of Cranberry, New York.

DALLAS – Dallas Theater Center presents Primary Trust, a 2024 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama at Bryant Hall on the campus of the Kalita Humphreys Theater (3400 Blackburn St, Dallas, TX 75219). Due to early demand, the show has been extended through March 23, 2025. 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.

“We are delighted to introduce Primary Trust to Dallas audiences,” said Kevin Moriarty, executive director of Dallas Theater Center. “With its poignant storytelling
and an incredibly talented cast, this beautiful play reminds us that even the smallest acts of human connection can ripple outward in unexpected ways.”

Primary Trust is directed by Sasha Maya Ada, and the cast includes Lee George (Kenneth), Jamal Sterling (Bert), Tiana Kaye Blair (Corrina/Wally’s waiter/bank customers) and Brian Mathis (Clay/Sam/Le Pousselet bartender). The play is presented in partnership with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.

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 start at $40 and are on sale now. Free parking is available on the Kalita Humphreys Theater campus. Wine and snacks will be available for purchase. For details, showtimes and to purchase tickets, please go to dallastheatercenter.org.