The Counter by Meghan Kennedy is a play about an unlikely friendship that develops between a lonely waitress, Katie, and a regular customer, Paul, a retired firefighter, at a small town diner in upstate New York.
Their casual morning conversations evolve into a deep, life-affirming bond as they share secrets, culminating in a shocking request from Paul that forces them both to confront their grief and find hope through human connection. The Counter is known for its intimate, moving, and provocative exploration of loneliness and connection.
The play, premiered Off-Broadway in 2024 starring Anthony Edwards and Susannah Flood, directed by David Cromer. It will be directed in Albany by Patrick White. It will be Harbinger Theatre’s 21st Capital Region premiere and ninth production at the Barn since our founding in December of 2021 with The Christians by Lucas Hnath.
“I think we tend to isolate when we’re grieving. It’s hard to connect. I’ve always been fascinated by what it is to really be seen by someone else and how complicated it is to know someone. Especially at this moment, where zoom meetings and screens rule our lives. Face to face communication sometimes feels like an endangered species. This play is about what happens when you actually let someone in. Because ultimately, we really do need each other.”-Meghan Kennedy
The Counter
By Meghan Kennedy
Paul-George Filieau
Katie-Lisa Bryk
Peg-Joyce Reynolds
Directed by Patrick White
Produced by Amy Hausknecht
Stage Managed by Regina Baker
Lighting Design by Stephen Wilson
Sound Design by Shaya Reyes
Albany Barn, 56 2nd Street, Albany NY
9/17-9/26
Thu-Sat @ 7:30pm
9/16 FREE Preview
9/17 Opening Night
9/18 Talkback with Giuliana Bruno
9/19 Counter Klatsch Preshow Reception at 6:30pm
9/24 Thursday Show
9/25 Talkback with Rosemary Armao
9/26 Closing Show
All tickets $15