A Home for Actors, Artists, and Audiences

This world premiere two-act play includes an original script written by co-director Sara Harrington that shares the origins of the broadcast in the first act, and brings to stage the original broadcast in the second act.

The Mercury Theater Live On Air’s Halloween show is coming up, and Orson Welles won’t settle for a typical adaptation of a classic literature. He joins his producer John Houseman and assistant producer Paul Stewart to select a work to adapt. But this won't be any ordinary radio show. Welles intends for this show to be a realistic, action-packed adventure that will make listeners feel as though they are witnessing events in real time, as they occur. Reporters! Bulletins! Excitement! What could go wrong?

Twelve Angry Jurors contemplates the huge responsibility of 12 ordinary people who must decide the guilt or innocence of a teenager accused of murder. It looks like an open-and-shut case—until one voice casts doubts and challenges a deeper examination of the facts. In the sweltering jury room each person brings their individual histories, biases, and prejudices to the table as they struggle to reach a unanimous decision that will decide one youth’s fate. Twelve Angry Jurors explores how our actions (or inaction) have consequences.

Dr. Lynn Cummings, an astrophysicist, tries to bring science and faith into balance while grappling with personal questions, reconnecting with her daughter, and mourning the loss of her husband. When an unidentified object is discovered heading toward Earth, a less-than-reputable online magazine misquotes her, casting doubt on her credibility. The two-time Nobel Prize nominee and the ambitious journalist monitor the mysterious object. Dr. Cummings hopes to witness nothing remarkable and thus save her reputation, but there is no telling what she will discover beyond the stars.

CNY Playhouse is an amateur non-profit theater organization dedicated to community, inclusivity, and innovation.

We are thankful to our audiences for following us to our new home, and are thankful to still be able to make art, after 10 years!