The Umbrella Arts Center proudly presents the Boston-area premiere of The Counter, a riveting new play by acclaimed playwright Meghan Kennedy. This production will run Sep 26 – Nov 9, 2025, transforming the intimate Black Box space into a prism for a surprising, funny and moving reflection on the everyday connections that can change our lives. The play is helmed by emerging director Alex Lonati in her Umbrella Stage debut, and features Norton Award-nominated “ranney”* as Paul, Margaret Clark as Katie, and Norton and IRNE Award-winner Maureen Keiller* as Peg. This award-winning play follows the unlikely connection between Paul, a retired firefighter who goes every morning to the same small town diner, and Katie, who’s always there to pour the coffee. After many months of small talk across the counter, the sharing of one secret grows into a deeply meaningful, life-affirming friendship—shocking both Paul and Katie into embracing the hopes and joys born of basic human connection. Through sharp dialogue and unexpected humor, The Counter explores “secrets and grief and escape, [running] away and starting again, and most crucially standing in front of a suddenly opened door.” (New York Stage Review) “I’m excited that Boston audiences will have an opportunity to experience The Counter for the first time,” says Performing Arts Director Brian Boruta. “It struck me as a thrilling surprise – a reminder that the most unlikely connections found in our everyday lives can have a monumental impact.” Originally commissioned by Roundabout Theater, it was called “an intensely provocative new American play” (New York Stage Review) by Kennedy, whose other plays include Napoli, Brooklyn; Too Much, Too Much, Too Many; and Light. Her work has been produced around the U.S., U.K., Ireland and Sweden, developed or presented by such prominent institutions as the National Theatre of London, The Atlantic Theater Company, Williamstown Theatre Festival, and Ars Nova. *Indicates a member of Actor’s Equity Association.