Review: Primary Trust

Thirty-eight-year-old African American bookstore clerk Kenneth (Andrew Broderick) finds solace in clinging to the two things he loves most: drinking mai tais at a local tiki bar, Wally’s, and spending time with his imaginary friend, Bert (Broadus Mattison), whom he created at the age of ten. His life takes a turn when he unexpectedly gets laid off from the job he has held since he was eighteen. This change opens the door for him to embark on a journey of self-discovery.

Primary Trust explores the significance of stepping out of one’s protective inner shell to face traumatic early-life losses. It was directed by the Arts Club Artistic Director, Ashlie Corcoran and written by New York-based playwright, Eboni Booth. The play received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2024.

The play unfolds in the fictional, small, predominantly white town of Cranberry in upstate New York. Early in the play, Kenneth reveals that his mother passed away when he was a child. After being devastated by his layoff, Kenneth heads to Wally’s for a mai tai to ease his frustration. He then speaks with the cheerful waitress, Corrina (Celia Aloma), who suggests he apply for a job at the Primary Trust Bank. He follows her advice and secures a position under bank manager Sam (Andrew Wheeler).

Soon after, a friendship blossomed between Kenneth and Corrina. They went out for dinner one night, which was my favourite moment of the play. Corrina starts venting about her social life, including her roommate and a new man she’s been seeing. When she inquires about Kenneth’s social life, he reveals that he isn’t social and only has one friend, Bert. Corrina immediately feels sympathetic towards him and apologizes for mentioning a painful topic. When Corrina reached out to hug him before leaving, he awkwardly resisted due to his shame and loneliness. That moment of the play was my favourite because it so clearly showcased Kenneth’s pain and vulnerability.

Primary Trust was an inspirational and emotional play. Playwright Eboni Booth did a great job of making viewers aware of the lonely lifestyles. The story can inspire people to leave their comfort zones and live happier and more meaningful lives.

Rating: 4.5/5

Date watched: February 21, 2025

Location: Granville Island Stage, Vancouver BC