HARTFORD—In its 40th Season, TheaterWorks Hartford showcases the power of community, bringing a local tale of tragedy, heroism, and healing back to the city with the world premiere of “CIRCUS FIRE” at the historic First Company Governor’s Foot Guard in downtown Hartford.
“CIRCUS FIRE is a centerpiece of our 40th season, and it reflects our commitment to telling stories that genuinely resonate with our community,” commented TWH’s artistic director Rob Ruggiero.
Written by Connecticut-based playwright Jacques Lamarreand directed by Jared Mezzocchi, CIRCUS FIRE will run from April 16 to May 31, 2026. The performance has already been extended due to increased demand.
Despite a heat wave blanketing the city, Connecticut residents eagerly awaited “The Greatest Show on Earth” in July of 1944. A fire quickly engulfs the big top, creating a terrifying blaze. Within hours and days, the communities of Hartford and the Circus must confront this tragedy together.
“After putting together programs at The Mark Twain House & Museum with authors who have written about the Hartford Circus Fire and having attended the annual anniversary ceremony at the memorial site, I was struck by how this 1944 event still captivates and haunts us today. I was inspired to create this play to tell the story of how two communities – Hartford and the circus – experienced the fire. It’s important that we remember this tragedy’s heroes, the survivors, and those who lost their lives,” explained Lamarre.
“Having an opportunity to return to Theaterworks Hartford for a 4th production is an incredible honor, but what makes CIRCUS FIRE an unique experience is that it is going to be site-specific, performed deep within the community,” said Mezzocchi. “Over the last two years of development with Jacques Lamarre and Rob Ruggiero, this story and script have given me a deep appreciation of Hartford, its citizens, and the complex history it holds.”
“Collaborating with playwright Jacques Lamarre and visionary director Jared Mezzocchi makes this project deeply personal; their imaginations have shaped something truly special. And I love that we’re bringing this work out into the community,” said TWH’s artistic director Rob Ruggiero.
The cast includes ten Connecticut-based actors—Olivia Nicole Hoffman,
Caroline Kinsolving, Janelle Anne Robinson, Mike Boland, Constantino Fernandez, Stuart Rider,
Godfrey L. Simmons, Jr., Marco Verna, Rebecka Jones, and Dan Whelton—and two students
from the Hartt School of the Performing Arts—Anastasia Maglaras and Eric Orsini.
“I’m especially proud that we’re using an entirely Connecticut-based cast—ten remarkable local actors, joined by two student actors from our partnership with Kevin Ramsey and The Hartt School,” shared Ruggiero. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase the extraordinary talent that lives right here.”
The creative team includes Brian Prather on set design, Arthur Wilson on costume design, Rob Denton on lighting Design, Lindsay Jones on sound design, and Tom Kosis as the Stage Manager.
Learn more about the performance and purchase tickets at twhartford.org or by calling the box office at 860-527-7838. Tickets range from $25 to $70. The show runs for approximately 100 minutes with no intermission.
Publisher’s Notes: CT Latino News is proud to partner with TheaterWorks Hartford in supporting the state’s Arts and Culture.