The Contemporary Theatre of Ohio in Columbus will present “Primary Trust,” the 2024 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama by playwright Eboni Booth, from April 23 through May 10, 2026. Founding artistic director Geoffrey Nelson returns to the company after a 15-year absence to play Kenneth, the central character, in a production directed by Producing Artistic Director Leda Hoffmann.

The 90-minute play, performed without intermission, earned a New York Times Critic’s Pick during its Off-Broadway premiere. The story follows a man whose stable routine is disrupted when his neighborhood bookstore closes. Set largely in a tiki bar, the play examines loneliness, friendship, and the role of community in helping people navigate loss and change. Nelson co-founded the company that became The Contemporary Theatre of Ohio; his return after 15 years adds significance for Columbus audiences familiar with the organization’s history.

Performances take place at Studio Two in the Vern Riffe Center, 77 S. High St., Fourth Floor, Columbus. Preview performances are scheduled for April 23 and 24; regular performances run Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Standard tickets are $68.55. Pay-what-you-want tickets are available two hours before preview performances; student rush tickets are $20 with valid student ID. Tickets are available at thecontemporaryohio.org or at the box office. The production is recommended for ages 13 and older.

Source: BroadwayWorld Columbus