About the Show

Winner of the 2024 Papatango Prize, directed by George Turvey, written by Hannah Doran.

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.

Critic Reviews (9)

"While the show is overall a strong accomplishment – entertaining, thoughtful, and decisive in its conceptual significance – it falls short if you’re detail-oriented enough to notice...It’s a thrilling production, but too imperfect to please."
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"The last 20 minutes of the show, when Trumpian viciousness crashes through the door, feels frankly unnecessary."
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"But this is a vigorous first play, beautifully performed, alive and energetic, by a playwright of promise."
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"It’s a solid play that grows in stature - when I caught up with on a sleepy matinee the audience was largely unresponsive for the first half; in the second there was gasp after gasp."
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"This production is a prime cut of contemporary theatre. If you’re looking for drama that doesn’t mince words, this is the show to see."
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"Doran’s play stresses that this is an aspiration still chased, however unobtainable it’s become."
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"The Meat Kings is a powerful, finely observed debut that cuts deep into questions of work, loyalty, and survival in modern America. Strong writing combined with a talented cast who find the marrow and muscle within their characters."
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"I won’t spoil whether they’re ever maliciously used by the actors or not...Doran’s gutsy play carves out a vital question: who is really allowed to dream in America?"
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