T is the newest employee at Cafarelli & Sons, a storied New York butcher shop now facing hard times. Working under the firm hand of Paula, the no-nonsense manager, T quickly learns that survival in the cutting room takes more than just skill with a knife. As summer draws to a close, and with layoffs looming, the workers must navigate shifting alliances, budding romance, and simmering tensions—each vying for the security of a job that may not last. Beneath the blood and banter lies a deeper conflict: the fragility of the American dream for those clinging to its promise.

The production features a debut play by Hannah Doran, winner of the 2024 Papatango New Writing Prize, selected from a record 1,589 entries. Known for spotlighting bold new voices, the Papatango Prize has launched multiple award-winning plays. Direction comes from George Turvey, Artistic Director of Papatango and director of Shook (National Tour, Sky Arts), bringing his signature focus on socially urgent stories to this new staging.

Presented by Papatango, this production continues the company’s tradition of championing distinctive new writing with clear political resonance. Doran’s script blends sharp humor with layered character dynamics, exploring the intersection of immigration, labor, and survival in contemporary America.