NEW YORK, NY — The historic American Theatre of Actors, Inc. (ATA), a legendary incubator for New York theatrical talent since 1976, is thrilled to present a dynamic double feature of new plays by acclaimed playwright Frank Cossa. Under the sharp direction of Ken Coughlin, Cross Purposes and The Expert will run for a strictly limited, two-week engagement from June 3 through June 14, 2026, at the ATA’s Beckmann Stage as part of its theatrical complex at 314 W 54th St, New York City.

This provocative, 80-minute evening features an exceptional ensemble cast including Amanda Cannon, Cristina Vera, Jonathan Beebe, and Riyadh Rollins, delivering a masterclass in contemporary drama, razor-sharp comedy, and social critique.

Two Distinct Plays. One Unmissable Night.

The evening kicks off with Cross Purposes, a quick-witted, gripping snapshot of contemporary friction that plays out over a coffee, a diet coke, a hangover, and a crucifix inside a local diner.

The story follows a brilliant but deeply hungover professor who finds himself caught in a vice of intense judgment, facing the sharp, simultaneous disapproval of a no-nonsense waitress and his own student.

Following the intermission, the energy pivots to the unexpected comedic twists of The Expert. The setup is simple: Jack thinks he’s hired an art expert to evaluate a painting he’s inherited. The execution? A wild, “Just YES!” ride of assumptions, credentials, and deception that will leave audiences second-guessing who the real expert in the room actually is.

A Legendary Stage for New Voices

Founded in 1976 by James Jennings, the American Theatre of Actors has spent half a century promoting the development of new playwrights, directors, and actors. ATA has served as the creative launchpad for over 12,000 actors, including icons such as Bruce Willis, Dennis Quaid, Edie Falco, Chazz Palminteri, Kathryn Hahn, and Dan Lauria. This double bill proudly continues ATA’s mission of presenting vibrant works that tackle the complex ethical and social landscapes of contemporary society.

EVENT DETAILS & PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE:

• WHAT: Cross Purposes & The Expert (Two New Plays by Frank Cossa)
• WHERE: American Theatre of Actors | 314 W 54th St, New York, NY
• RUNNING TIME: 80 minutes (including 1 intermission)

SHOW TIMES:

• Wednesday, June 3 @ 8:00 PM (Opening Night)
• Thursday, June 4 @ 8:00 PM
• Friday, June 5 @ 8:00 PM
• Saturday, June 6 @ 8:00 PM
• Sunday, June 7 @ 3:00 PM (Matinee)
• Wednesday, June 10 @ 8:00 PM
• Thursday, June 11 @ 8:00 PM
• Friday, June 12 @ 8:00 PM
• Saturday, June 13 @ 8:00 PM
• Sunday, June 14 @ 3:00 PM (Closing Performance)

TICKETS:

• Pre-Sale Tickets: $20.94 (includes estimated $2.94 in fees)
• Pay It Forward Tickets: $38.62 (includes estimated $3.62 in fees)
• General Admission: $28.22 ($25 +$3.22 in fees)

HEALTH & SAFETY NOTE: Out of respect for the artists and audience members, late seating may be problematic. Theatergoers are strongly encouraged to arrive early.