The Terminated
- TNW Ensemble Theater
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
For Immediate Release
Contact: TNW Ensemble Theater
608.609.9589
Laid Off and Ticked Off,
Pink Slipped and Well-Equipped
TNW Ensemble Theater debuts a new play about fired federal workers
as part of World Premiere Wisconsin 2026
They’re from the government. But they’re not here to help. They’re here to get even. They’re a team of fired federal workers assembled to pull off a daring caper in The Terminated, the latest production from TNW Ensemble Theater. Blending comedy, beloved bits from heist films, and political satire, this new play shows what seemingly average people can pull off when it’s time for justice.
The Terminated opens Friday, April 17, with performances Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 pm and Saturday and Sunday matinees at 4 pm April 17-19 and April 24-26 at TNW Ensemble Theater’s performance space at 1957 Winnebago St. at Schenk’s Corners.
Helen, Helen Wheels, is the Danny Ocean of this plot, and she herself is a mild-mannered editor’s alter ego. Helen Wheels recruits a couple of old pals for this adventure, and although they’re not entirely sure this is healthy, they can’t resist the challenge.
They’re joined by other former federal employees, including an IT guy and a climber who might be part of the Alt National Park Service, plus a host of mysterious suppliers and wildlife acting strangely. The play follows the team’s exploits, which include split-second timing, loud ticking sounds, and, of course, someone crawling through an air vent. When the crew runs into unexpected roadblocks, they’re forced to regroup and look at themselves, plus contend with closing security doors, rising waters, and a dangerous, lurking mastermind.
The Terminated is written by Danielle Dresden and directed by Francisco Torres. The cast features Kiki Em, Ethan Richard, Edric Johnson, Peggy Rosin, and Dresden, with Emily Morrison-Weeks as multi-function stage manager.
This production is part of World Premiere Wisconsin, a statewide festival celebrating new plays and musicals running throughout 2026. To learn more, visit www.worldpremierewisconsin.com.
General admission tickets are $25, available through TicketTailor at https://buytickets.at/tnwensembletheater/2133864.
TNW Ensemble Theater is a multi-disciplinary arts organization based in Madison, Wisconsin, and established in 1985. For more information about The Terminated, contact TNW at info@tnwensembletheater.org.
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