Dallas Theater Center Stages Pulitzer Prize–Winning Drama
In a poignant exploration of connection and transformation, Dallas Theater Center presents Primary Trust, the 2024 Pulitzer Prize–winning drama by playwright Eboni Booth. Running from February 27 to March 23, 2025, at Bryant Hall on the Kalita Humphreys Theater campus, this co-production with Stage West Theatre of Fort Worth brings a deeply human story to Dallas audiences.
Set in the small town of Cranberry, New York, Primary Trust follows Kenneth, a 38-year-old bookstore worker whose insular life is defined by routine—nights spent drinking Mai Tais at a tiki bar with his best friend, Bert. But when he is unexpectedly laid off, his world is upended, forcing him into a journey of self-discovery. Booth’s play, a dramatic comedy, delicately balances humor and heartbreak, revealing the profound impact of change, courage, and unexpected friendships.
“We are delighted to introduce Primary Trust to Dallas audiences,” says Kevin Moriarty, executive director of DTC. “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.”
The production is helmed by director Sasha Maya Ada, with a cast featuring Lee George as Kenneth, Jamal Sterling as Bert, Tiana Kaye Blair in multiple roles (Corrina, Wally’s waiter, bank customers), and Brian Mathis as Clay, Sam, and Le Pousselet bartender. The play is presented in partnership with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.
The staging of Primary Trust marks the beginning of a multi-year collaboration between DTC and Stage West Theatre, a partnership designed to extend the reach of both institutions and enrich artistic opportunities across North Texas.
“We are honored to partner with Stage West Theatre,” Moriarty notes. “This partnership will allow us to share our work with more people across two cities while providing greater creative opportunities for artists.”
For Stage West, the play represents a rare opportunity to bring a nationally celebrated new work to the region. “Primary Trust by Eboni Booth is not only brand-new, it is one of the most sought-after plays in America right now,” says 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.”
Running 95 minutes with no intermission, Primary Trust invites audiences to witness a tender, introspective journey infused with humor and heart. Its themes of loneliness, resilience, and the power of human relationships resonate with contemporary audiences, offering both catharsis and hope.
The production carries a recommended age rating of 13 and up due to adult language and thematic content, including mentions of death, job loss, and struggles with depression. The performance also employs haze effects and herbal cigarettes for authenticity.
Tickets for Primary Trust start at $40 and are on sale now through the Dallas Theater Center website. Free parking is available on-site, and refreshments will be available for purchase. For more information, including showtimes and ticket details, visit dallastheatercenter.org.