The Terminated

By Danielle Dresden

Directed by Francisco Torres

Laid Off and Ticked Off,
Pink Slipped and Well-Equipped

TNW Ensemble Theater debuts a new play about fired federal workers as part of World Premiere Wisconsin 2026

They’re from the government. But they’re not here to help. They’re here to get even. They’re a team of fired federal workers assembled to pull off a daring caper in The Terminated, the latest production from TNW Ensemble Theater. Blending comedy, beloved bits from heist films, and political satire, this new play shows what seemingly average people can pull off when it’s time for justice.

Helen, Helen Wheels, is the Danny Ocean of this plot, and she herself is a mild-mannered editor’s alter ego. Helen Wheels recruits a couple of old pals for this adventure, and although they’re not entirely sure this is healthy, they can’t resist the challenge.

They’re joined by other former federal employees, including an IT guy and a climber who might be part of the Alt National Park Service, plus a host of mysterious suppliers and wildlife acting strangely. The play follows the team’s exploits, which include split-second timing, loud ticking sounds, and, of course, someone crawling through an air vent. When the crew runs into unexpected roadblocks, they’re forced to regroup and look at themselves, plus contend with closing security doors, rising waters, and a dangerous, lurking mastermind.

The cast features Kiki Em, Ethan Richard, Edric Johnson, Peggy Rosin, and Dresden, with Emily Morrison-Weeks as multi-function stage manager.

This production is part of World Premiere Wisconsin, a statewide festival celebrating new plays and musicals running throughout 2026. To learn more, visit www.worldpremierewisconsin.com.

Produced by TNW Ensemble Theater at TNW Ensemble Theater, 1957 Winnebago Street, Madison

Performances: April 17-26, 2026

Performance Times:
Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 pm and Saturday and Sunday matinees at 4 pm April 17-19 and April 24-26

Ticket Prices: General admission tickets are $25, available through TicketTailor at buytickets.at/tnwensembletheater/2133864.

Call 608-609-9589 for reservations or more information.