Following an acclaimed run in New Jersey, the Off-Broadway premiere of Butler officially opens July 27. Performances of the Civil War-set comedy-drama by Richard Strand began July 14 at 59E59 Theaters.
Inspired by real-life historical events, Strand’s play takes place at the start of the Civil War and follows the story of Benjamin Butler and Shepard Mallory, an escaped slave who seeks sanctuary at Butler’s fort.
Butler is scheduled to play through August 28. Directed by Joseph Discher, the cast features Ames Adamson (Caesar and Cleopatra with Project Shaw), John G. Williams (Romeo & Juliet with Pulse Ensemble Theater), David Sitler (Frost/Nixon national tour) and Ben Sterling (The Royal Family at Shakespeare Theater of New Jersey).
“The law of the land has not yet changed,” state production notes, “slaves still are considered property and must be turned over to their ‘rightful owners.’ Does Butler follow the letter of the law or make a game-changing move that could alter the course of U.S. history?”
Read More: Broadway Stars Join Summer Shorts’ 10th Season at 59E59 Theaters
To purchase tickets, call Ticket Central at (212) 279-4200 or visit 59e59.org.
(Updated July 27, 2016)
