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The House of the Negro Insane

Opening Date: Aug 14, 2026
Closing Date: Sep 6, 2026
Running Time: 01:40
The House of the Negro Insane
https://www.59e59.org/shows/show-detail/the-house-of-the-negro-insane/
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Playing @
59E59 Theaters
59 East 59th Street, New York City, NY 10022
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The year is 1935. For years, Attius has lived behind the imposing walls of Central State Hospital – one of only seven US psychiatric institutions built to house "insane and idiotic negroes" – where the homeless and destitute are confined alongside the diseased and the criminally insane. 

Attius has carved out a meager existence within the hospital building coffins, quietly crafting the final boxes for those who will never see freedom again. But everything changes when two new patients arrive, and Attius is forced to confront a possibility he buried long ago – a chance at life beyond the walls.
Off BroadwayPlay - Drama
Show Notes: 1 Intermission. This show contains strong language, racial slurs, and violence.
Age Guidance: 16
Cast
  • Benjamin Rowe
  • Rob Penty
  • Wadiah Waliah
  • Sidney Hatcher
Written By
  • Terence Anthony
Director
  • Daniel Carlton

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Accessibility

  • Curb Ramps

    Curb ramps available

  • Restroom

    One floor down from lobby, available via elevator. Wheelchair-accessible stall, sink, and paper towel dispenser

  • Elevator/Escalator

    Elevator available

  • Entrance

    Entrance is street level.

  • Visual Assistance

    Low vision seating available upon request

  • Folding Armrests

    Chairs with no armrests (free standing) available

  • Assisted Listening System

    All three theaters are equipped with radio assistive listening devices for the hearing impaired. Hearing loop adaptors are also available. Pick up at the front desk by the box office.

  • Wheelchair Info

    All three theaters have wheelchair accessible seats in the front row. There are several other locations in Theater A that are accessible without steps and may have wheelchair access.

  • Water Fountain

    Lower level accessible via elevator

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