Recognition

by Ken Weitzman

Recognition is based on the true story of Elizebeth Smith Friedman, who's study of Shakespeare uncannily leads to her becoming one of, if not the leading figure in the creation of the science of cryptology. Her work, along with her husband’s, formed the basis of this country’s modern intelligence community, from the NSA, to CIA, to FBI. Smith Friedman’s story was hidden until recently because J. Edgar Hoover...

Recognition is based on the true story of Elizebeth Smith Friedman, who's study of Shakespeare uncannily leads to her becoming one of, if not the leading figure in the creation of the science of cryptology. Her work, along with her husband’s, formed the basis of this country’s modern intelligence community, from the NSA, to CIA, to FBI. Smith Friedman’s story was hidden until recently because J. Edgar Hoover buried her contributions to steal credit for himself.

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Recognition

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  • Premiere Stages at Kean University: Recognition by Ken Weitzman
    “

    Premiere Stages, the professional Equity theatre company in residence at Kean University, is pleased to recognize Recognition as a Semi-Finalist for the 2025 Premiere Play Festival. Recognition rose through a competitive selection conducted by Premiere staff and a panel of professionals to become distinguished among 805 submissions. The panel was particularly impressed by the theme of needing to be recognized for one’s hard work. Our congratulations and thanks to Ken.

    Premiere Stages, the professional Equity theatre company in residence at Kean University, is pleased to recognize Recognition as a Semi-Finalist for the 2025 Premiere Play Festival. Recognition rose through a competitive selection conducted by Premiere staff and a panel of professionals to become distinguished among 805 submissions. The panel was particularly impressed by the theme of needing to be recognized for one’s hard work. Our congratulations and thanks to Ken.

    ”
Elizebeth Smith Friedman - Age flexible. She goes from early twenties to decades older during the span of the play though this does not need to be depicted in any particular way, if at all.
William Friedman - Age flexible, same as with Elizebeth
Librarian/DJ - Woman, late 20s or 30s. Nerdy hip. Not ironic, though. Loves her job.
Man 1 - Late 30s to early 50s. His pattern: Hoover, Fabyan, Military Commander.
Man 2 – late 20s to late 30s. His pattern: Herndon, Root, Defense Lawyer, Jones.
Woman 1 – 40s to early 60s. Her pattern: Mrs. Gallup, Mrs. Mancini, Nurse.

Development History

  • Reading, Syracuse University, 2025