Syracuse Sun

Syracuse Stage is set to welcome 2025 with the production of "Primary Trust," a Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Eboni Booth. The drama, directed by Melissa Crespo, will run from January 22 to February 9 at the Archbold Theatre in Syracuse, New York.

Artistic Director Robert Hupp expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming show: “Stage’s production of ‘Primary Trust’ is brought to life by a superb cast and creative team. We’re eager to share this timely play so beautifully directed by our associate artistic director, Melissa Crespo. It’s just the right story at just the right time.”

The story unfolds in Cranberry, New York, where Kenneth, played by Garrett Turner, navigates life's changes as his job situation shifts and he grapples with imaginary friendships. Crespo shared her thoughts on the play: “Eboni Booth’s beautiful play ‘Primary Trust’ about friendship and the smallest of chances is exactly what we need in our sometimes-lonely world.”

Turner returns to Syracuse Stage alongside Bjorn DuPaty as Bert. The cast also includes Eunice Woods as Corinna, Paul DeBoy as Clay, Sam and Le Pousselet Bartender; and Armando Gutierrez as musician.

The design team features Ann Beyersdorfer for sets, Carmen Martinez for costumes, Alejandro Fajardo for lighting, Jacqueline R Herter for sound design, and original music by Armando Gutierrez.

Tickets start at $30 with discounts available. Additional events include pay-what-you-will performances from January 22–26 and various pre-show discussions. Open-captioned performances are scheduled for January 29 and February 9.

Syracuse Stage introduces trivia night this season with an event hosted by "Jeopardy!" champion Dillon Hupp on January 23. Additionally, a free reading of Mary Chase's "Harvey" will be held on January 26.

Support for this season comes from sponsors such as the Slutzker Family Foundation and ACR Health serves as a community partner for "Primary Trust."