MAINSTAGES

Recognition by Ken Weitzman

A World Premiere

Directed by Matt Stabile

April 10-25, 2027

Executive Producers: Richard Carpenito; Doreen & David Chemerow  

Based on the true and only recently unearthed story of Elizebeth Smith Friedman, whose study of Shakespeare uncannily led to a storied career as one of the country’s first codebreakers, influencing the outcome of two world wars, and (along with her husband) laying the foundation for the science of cryptology and modern encryption techniques used to this day by the NSA, FBI, and CIA. Was it because of her covert work and existence that most Americans had never heard of her? Or did someone bury her contributions in an effort to steal credit for themself?

Ken Weitzman, creator of the non-traditional theatrical experience, The Happiness Gym, which enjoyed the start of its own NNPN Rolling World Premiere at our inaugural Owl New Play Festival, is back for another festival and another world premiere. This epic-tale follows the life and career of one of the first American codebreakers, whose contributions helped the US win WWI and WW2 even though most Americans have never heard of her.

Performances: Thursday-Saturday at 7:30pm, Saturdays & Sundays at 3pm

No Saturday matinee on opening (4/10)

Opening Night Celebration: $75; Individual tickets: $60

 

 

The Devil’s Wheel by Vincent Delaney 

A New Play

Directed by Lee Soroko

April 16-25, 2027

In 1894 young Annie Londonderry became the first woman to bicycle solo around the world, setting off a firestorm in the early women’s movement. She ditched her corset, sold advertising, worked the press in every country, and won a massive wager when she returned home to Boston in only 18 month—although she’d never ridden a bike before her adventure. But her victory came with terrifying costs.

Performances: Friday & Saturday at 7:00pm, Sundays at 2pm, Saturday matinee, 4/24, 2pm

Individual Tickets: $35