See Who's Starring in Final Thornton Wilder Play The Emporium Off-Broadway

See Who's Starring in Final Thornton Wilder Play The Emporium Off-Broadway

Rob Melrose will direct the limited engagement for Classic Stage Company.

February 11, 2026 By Andrew Gans

Casting is complete for Classic Stage Company's New York premiere of the late Thornton Wilder’s final play, The Emporium, adapted and completed by Kirk Lynn (Lipstick Traces).

Directed by Rob Melrose (Born with Teeth), previews will begin at CSC’s Lynn F. Angelson Theater April 30 for a limited engagement through June 7. Opening night is scheduled for May 18.

The cast will feature Candy Buckley (Scandalous), Mahira Kakkar (Life of Pi), Eva Kaminsky (Harry Potter & the Cursed Child), Patrick Kerr (You Can’t Take It with You), Derek Smith (The Lion King), Joe Tapper (You Can't Take It with You), and Cassia Thompson (Zack).

Wilder’s final play, billed as "more than 75 years in the making," follows a young man's journey through the city and beyond, as he encounters a world of wonder, meaning, and the elusive truths of life itself.

The production will also have scenic design by Walt Spangler, costume design by Alejo Vietti, lighting design by Cat Tate Starmer, sound design by Darron L West, and casting by tbd casting co.'s Stephanie Yankwitt.

Tickets are now available for CSC Patrons of Over $1,000. Individual tickets will go on sale March 5.

Visit ClassicStage.org.