The Counter
by Meghan Kennedy

Off-Broadway

The Counter Book Cover — The Counter Cover

Highlights

Female

Male

75 minsPresent DayBare Stage/Simple SetContemporary Costumes/Street ClothesComedy

Synopsis

This warmly funny and yearning play follows the unlikely connection between Paul, a retired firefighter who goes to the same counter every morning for a few cups of coffee, and Katie, who’s always there to serve him.

After many months of small talk, Paul decides it’s time for them to become real friends, and Katie gives in, sensing he needs a friend more than she does.

What begins as the sharing of one secret grows into a deeply meaningful, life-affirming friendship – shocking Paul and Katie into embracing the hopes and joys born of basic human connection.

Press Reviews

"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

"The Counter offers an engrossing dive into the minds of people who have been deeply shaken by their past, a reminder of the importance of human bonding, warm physical contact, and understanding of another’s devastating personal struggles."
— DC Theater Arts