Recognition by Ken Weitzman

Recognition by Ken Weitzman

A World Premiere

Directed by Matt Stabile

April 10-25, 2027

Executive Producers: Richard Carpenito; Doreen & David Chemerow

Based on the true and only recently unearthed story of Elizebeth Smith Friedman, whose study of Shakespeare uncannily led to a storied career as one of the country’s first codebreakers, influencing the outcome of two world wars, and (along with her husband) laying the foundation for the science of cryptology and modern encryption techniques used to this day by the NSA, FBI, and CIA. Was it because of her covert work and existence that most Americans had never heard of her? Or did someone bury her contributions in an effort to steal credit for themself?

Ken Weitzman, creator of the non-traditional theatrical experience, The Happiness Gym, which enjoyed the start of its own NNPN Rolling World Premiere at our inaugural Owl New Play Festival, is back for another festival and another world premiere. This epic-tale follows the life and career of one of the first American codebreakers, whose contributions helped the US win WWI and WW2 even though most Americans have never heard of her.