The Twenty-Seventh Man, Starring Chip Zien and Noah Robbins, Begins Previews at the Public Theater

The Twenty-Seventh Man begins previews on November 8 at off-Broadway's Public Theater. Nathan Englander’s new play, directed by Barry Edelstein, will open on November 18, with the limited engagement running through December 9.

The cast of the world premiere production includes original Into the Woods star Chip Zien alongside Noah Robbins as the mysterious title character. Joining Zien and Robbins are Byron Jennings, Happy Anderson, Daniel Oreskes and Ron Rifkin.

Based on Englander’s short story of the same name, The Twenty-Seventh Man is set in a Soviet prison in 1952, where Stalin’s secret police have rounded up twenty-six prolific literary figures, as well as one unknown writer. The young writer's arrest baffles the rest of the incarcerated as they debate politics, culture, identity and their duties as writers during troubled times.

The play will feature scenic design by Michael McGarty, costume design by Katherine Roth, lighting design by Russell H. Champa and sound design by Darron L. West.