The Counter

By Meghan Kennedy
Directed by Alex Lonati
Sep 26-Nov 9, 2025 (Press opening 9/28)
Black Box Theater

This heartwarming play follows the unlikely connection between Paul, a retired firefighter who goes every morning to the same small town diner, and Katie, who’s always there to pour the coffee. After many months of small talk across the counter, the sharing of one secret grows into a deeply meaningful, life-affirming friendship—shocking both Paul and Katie into embracing the hopes and joys born of basic human connection. This award-winning play is a surprising and moving meditation on the everyday connections that can change our lives.

“The subtle beauty of The Counter lies in watching these two burrowing creatures develop the kind of bond that means they’re pulling each other back up towards the light.” — New York Magazine

“Kennedy deals in secrets and grief and escape, in running away and starting again, and most crucially in standing in front of a suddenly opened door: You either stay inside, crushed by your habitual fear and unhappiness, or bravely walk through.” — New York Stage Review