Our 2025 Script in Hand season begins with How the World Began
How the World Began is a gripping drama that explores the clash between science and faith in a small Kansas town torn apart by a recent tornado. When Susan, a science teacher from Manhattan, makes a casual remark about the origins of life, she triggers a fierce confrontation with Micah, a bright but troubled student. As tensions rise, Susan finds herself at the heart of a larger cultural battle, threatening not only her safety but the fragile unity of the community. With sharp insights into belief, ideology, and human psychology, How the World Began is a thought-provoking exploration of how a single moment can unravel everything—highlighting the delicate and painful gulf between conflicting points of view and the urgent need for healing and mutual understanding.
After a recent string of comedies in our reading series, it feels like a perfect time to turn our attention to a suspenseful and gripping drama. Catherine Trieschmann’s exploration of the tension between science and faith rings particularly relevant in today’s polarized world. With complex, heartfelt characters who face deeply personal struggles, the play powerfully captures the emotional depth of a fractured community. With this extraordinary cast delivering powerful performances, I’m thrilled to kick off our 2025 Script In Hand series with a work that’s sure to spark meaningful debate and invite important conversation."
Mark ShanahanMEET THE CAST
MEET THE CREATIVE TEAM
*member of Actors’ Equity Association
ARTICLES AND INTERVIEWS
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT "HOW THE WORLD BEGAN"
Catherine Trieschmann’s “HOW THE WORLD BEGAN" a small play with hefty themes, pushes the seemingly irreconcilable differences of religion and reason to their breaking point"
The GuardianDon’t miss this tour-de-force."
Theatre Storm"HOW THE WORLD BEGAN" offers an emotionally stirring story with substance for personal reflection."
Chicago CriticABOUT SCRIPT IN HAND PLAYREADINGS
Every Script in Hand playreading is a brand new experience.
At a Script in Hand playreading, there’s nothing between you and the actors on stage. These readings bring actors who’ve just met — or who’ve known each other for years — together for one day to rehearse and perform a play on a bare stage, with simple lighting — and you. The audience is in charge of conjuring the set, costumes, and atmosphere — or nothing at all. Actors, audience, and the director come together to create a special, one-night-only experience.
Learn about our Script in Hand 2025 Season and becoming a Subscriber HERE!
MEET THE CURATOR
THANK YOU
The 2025 Script in Hand Playreading Series is supported by Joyce Hergenhan and the White Barn program of the Lucille Lortel Foundation.
2025 Programming & Season Sponsorship is generously provided by Barbara Streicker.
All titles, dates, and artists are subject to change.
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directed by Camden Gonzales
Recommended for ages 14 and up
English 
Spanish