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Johnson City Today
By the People, for the People
Barter Theatre to Present World Premiere of 'Trains'
New play explores how the past disrupts a family's fragile stability.
Published on Feb. 12, 2026
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Historic Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Tennessee is announcing the world premiere of a new play called "Trains" that was fully developed through the theater's Black Stories Voices Initiative. The play follows the characters of Travis Hampton and his father Lester, whose "fragile sense of stability" is tested when an unexpected visitor arrives with a business proposition, forcing buried memories and unresolved tensions back into the open.
Why it matters
The premiere of "Trains" marks an important milestone for Barter Theatre's initiative to amplify diverse voices and stories on stage. As one of the longest-running professional theaters in the country, Barter's decision to prioritize new works that explore complex family dynamics and the impact of the past aligns with a broader industry trend of theaters seeking to become more inclusive and representative.
The details
"Trains" will run from February 13 to February 28 at Barter's Smyth Theatre. Tickets and more information are available on the theater's website and by phone.
- "Trains" will run from February 13 to February 28, 2026.
The players
Barter Theatre
A historic professional theater located in Abingdon, Tennessee that is one of the longest-running theaters in the country.
Travis Hampton
A character in the new play "Trains" whose "fragile sense of stability" is tested by an unexpected visitor.
Lester Hampton
The father of the character Travis Hampton in the new play "Trains".
The takeaway
The world premiere of "Trains" at Barter Theatre represents the theater's commitment to amplifying diverse voices and stories on stage, reflecting a broader industry trend towards more inclusive and representative programming.
