A long-unfinished work by legendary playwright Thornton Wilder is finally getting its moment in the spotlight. Classic Stage Company is bringing The Emporium to life in its New York premiere, offering theatergoers a rare chance to experience a “new” work from one of America’s most celebrated dramatists—more than 75 years in the making.
Adapted and completed by Kirk Lynn and directed by Rob Melrose, The Emporium begins previews on April 30, 2026, with opening night set for May 18. The limited engagement will run through June 7 at the Lynn F. Angelson Theater.
The production features a strong ensemble cast, including Candy Buckley, Mahira Kakkar, Eva Kaminsky, Patrick Kerr, Derek Smith, Joe Tapper, and Cassia Thompson—each bringing depth and dimension to Wilder’s final vision.
The play follows a young man’s journey through a shifting world filled with mystery, discovery, and philosophical reflection. Along the way, he encounters a range of characters and experiences that explore life’s biggest questions—purpose, connection, and the search for meaning. True to Wilder’s signature style, The Emporium blends imagination with profound emotional insight, inviting audiences to reflect on the human experience in unexpected ways.
For Classic Stage Company, led by Producing Artistic Director Jill Rafson, the production marks a major cultural moment. Wilder, best known for iconic works like Our Town and The Skin of Our Teeth, left The Emporium unfinished at the time of his death. Now, thanks to Lynn’s careful adaptation, the piece has been completed while preserving Wilder’s voice and intent.
The creative team behind the production includes scenic designer Walt Spangler, costume designer Alejo Vietti, lighting designer Cat Tate Starmer, and sound designer Darron L. West, all working together to bring this imaginative world to life on stage.
Tickets are already available for top-tier supporters, with general sales having opened in early March. Theater fans can also take advantage of Classic Stage Company’s 2-Play FlexPass, which offers access to both The Emporium and Marcel on the Train at a discounted rate.
With its rich history, celebrated creative team, and the intrigue of a long-lost masterpiece, The Emporium is shaping up to be one of the most compelling theater events of the season—bridging past and present in a way only Thornton Wilder can.