When the request came in to Charles Phox, he did not hesitate. Of course his friend and McCarter Theatre patron could sponsor tickets so more than 30 graduating seniors in Trenton could experience the 2024 Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Primary Trust”.

Mr. Phox, McCarter Theatre sales concierge, and his childhood friend Lance Liverman are theatre enthusiasts who say attending live performances helped shape their lives while growing up in Princeton.

They were eager to provide a similar experience for scholars at for Foundation Academies, a Trenton public charter school educating more than 1,100 students from kindergarten through Grade 12. FA school performance ranks in the 85th percentile among all New Jersey schools, with a 100% college acceptance rate.

“I love the theater. I was introduced at an early age on a field trip,” Mr. Liverman said. “I wanted to provide the same opportunity for scholars at FA.”

Foundation Academies CEO Sheria McRae agreed that live performance is essential in an era dominated by virtual experiences. “As a former English teacher, I value good story telling,” she said. “Live theater not only tells a story but also engages the audience in ways that screens cannot.”

“Primary Trust,” by Eboni Booth tells the story of Kenneth, a middle-aged man adrift after being laid off from his job in a bookstore. With the help of friends, Kenneth is able to confront his traumatic past and rebuild a life through friendship and trust.

More than 30 seniors attended a May 15 performance and luncheon, followed by a discussion with Julie Felise Dubiner, McCarter Theatre dramaturg, and Donya K Washington, BOLD associate artistic director.

In a question-and-answer session, scholars were able to unpack their theater experience, learn more about theater production and direction, and discuss how “Primary Trust” handles poignant themes.

“It was about serious things but had a hopeful ending,” noted FA Senior Jay’Lah Oliver. “It reminds us that life goes on. Change is inevitable but maybe it’s going to be okay.”

McCarter Theatre and Foundation Academies look forward to working with partners, such as Lance Liverman, to provide  more scholars access to the magic of performing arts. “It took a team approach – and we did it,” Mr. Liverman said.

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