Playwright Gary Marlon Gere will present the world premiere of his powerful new drama, Recovery, at the Broadway Bound Theatre Festival from August 13 to 15, 2026. Directed by Dennis Oliveira, the production runs at AMT Theater in New York City, offering a deeply personal look at the aftermath of September 11.
Gere, who spent seven months working at the World Trade Center recovery site and was later named an Honorary Battalion Chief by the FDNY, wrote the play to bear witness to the men and women who remained behind to undertake the dig. Rather than focusing on political commentary, Recovery examines the private reckonings, faith, and resilience of those searching for the missing. Gere initially began journaling during his time at Ground Zero, turning his experiences into a story for the stage to honor those who served and lost their lives.
Set three months after September 11, Recovery follows Leo as he works the site through the night, encountering fellow recovery workers including Chief William Henry and Rev. Mitties McDonald, a British minister providing spiritual support in the Ground Zero morgue. As Leo struggles with grief and survival, he forms an unlikely bond with Johnny, a new worker searching for his missing brother, while memories of his mother and young daughter haunt his thoughts.
The production features an ensemble cast including Johnny Cannizzaro, Clara Bishop, Desiree Baxter, Michael Bertolini, Michael Basile, and Denise Lute. The creative team includes original music composition by Julien Bilodeau, music consulting by D. Michael Heath, scenic design by Alayna Klein, sound design by Peter Papangelopoulos, lighting design by Levi Morici, and stage management by Jamie Chen.
Recovery runs for 90 minutes at AMT Theater, located at 354 West 45th Street. Four performances are scheduled across the three-day run: Thursday, August 13 at 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM; Friday, August 14 at 2:00 PM, followed by an audience talkback; and Saturday, August 15 at 5:00 PM. Tickets and further details are available through the festival box office.
