The Trumpeter
“The Trumpeter promises to be
a riveting theater event.”
Critics hail The Trumpeter as a must-see theatrical experience that “testifies powerfully to art’s capacity amid the horror of war to inspire hope,” built around “a harrowing wartime experience that no news report can deliver.” In the uniquely immersive environment of Dupont Underground, “it is the site-specific soundscape that grabs you and absorbs you,” creating a visceral journey that stays with you long after you leave.
Secure your tickets now and witness this unforgettable fusion of art, sound, and story up close. See the full review in DC Theater Arts.
Schedule
Thursday, January 22, 2026 – 8:00 PM
(Opening with Ukrainian Embassy)*Friday, January 23, 2026 – 8:00 PM
(Czech Embassy Night)*Saturday, January 24, 2026 – 2:00 PM
(Choral Affinity Matinee)*Saturday, January 24 - 8:00 PM
Sunday, January 25, 2026 – 3:00 PM
Monday, January 26, 2026 – 8:00 PM
(Industry Night)*Thursday, January 29, 2026 – 8:00 PM
(United Help Ukraine Night)*Friday, January 30, 2026 – 8:00 PM
Saturday, January 31, 2026 – 2:00 PM & 8:00 PM
Sunday, February 1, 2026 – 3:00 PM
By Inna Goncharova
English Translation by John Farndon
Directed by János Szász
Starring Michael Kevin Darnall & Lise Bruneau
Trumpet by Kevin McKee
Featuring a vocal ensemble of Ukrainian men
Buried deep beneath a besieged steel plant in Mariupol, the last surviving member of a Ukrainian military band shelters in the dark, listening to the relentless bombardment above. As the city is crushed, he clings to his instrument and to memory, playing into the void to keep himself—and the story of his comrades—alive. The bunker becomes a place of ghosts, resistance, and impossible hope, where every note risks being the last.
Trigger Warning: This performance engages directly with the realities of war, including bombardment, and siege, and may be triggering for those affected by conflict or related trauma.
The trumpet is the heartbeat.
The bunker is the stage.
You are inside the war zone.
THEME NIGHTS
Deepening the Experience of The Trumpeter
In addition to the core production, select performances of The Trumpeter feature themed evenings that bring audiences into conversation with diplomats, artists, advocates, and local communities whose perspectives resonate with the world of the play.
Opening Night with the Ukrainian Embassy – Thu 1/22
Our opening performance is hosted in partnership with the Ukrainian Embassy, with a reception and remarks from the ambassador, cultural attaché, and representatives of adjacent and allied embassies. The evening includes an introduction to the work and a post-show talkback that situates the story of The Trumpeter within the broader context of the war in Ukraine.Czech Embassy Night: “What It Means to Be an Ally” – Fri 1/23
Hosted by the Embassy of the Czech Republic, this evening centers on allyship in times of conflict. The Deputy Chief of Mission will offer introductory remarks, followed by a post-show conversation and reception exploring what it means to stand with communities under siege.Choral Affinity Matinee – Sat 1/24 (Matinee)
This performance celebrates the power of collective voice. Local choir members are invited to attend at a discount using the code CHOIR, recognizing the connection between the choral tradition and the musical heart of The Trumpeter.Industry Night – Mon 1/26
Dedicated to the theater community, Industry Night offers discounted access for Gary Maker Theaters, CLStudio alumni, Alliance for New Music-Theater company guests, Theatre Washington, Actors’ Center members, and independent small theatres. It’s an opportunity for practitioners to encounter the piece together and reflect on the possibilities of site-specific work.United Help Ukraine Night – Fri 1/29
In partnership with United Help Ukraine, this evening features a post-show panel discussion on the ongoing realities of the war, the needs on the ground, and the role of art in witnessing, advocacy, and healing.