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Show Description
A star NFL running back, television news reporter, retired high school teacher, and a drummer for a popular heavy metal band are languishing in a cell inside a monument that has been converted into a prison for MAGA opponents. The far right-wing Christian Nationalist couple who run the prison are using any means necessary, including the threat of public execution, to “re-educate” them.
Set in the not-too-distant future, in which the United States has devolved into a full-blown authoritarian nation, the prisoners must decide whether they want to live or die.
This dystopian, action-filled drama comes from the creator of the 2022 KC Fringe Festival hit drama, “The Plume,” and two other KC Fringe Fest productions, “Slurry” (2018) and “John and Leslie are in the Copy Room Again” (2016)
This play contains profanity, gun violence, torture, and intense situations. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Cast and Crew
Director- Scott Cordes
Stage Manager- Alexa Cioffi-Abt
Cast
Robert Vardiman
Jessica Whitfield
Curtis Weber
Rebecca Ralstin
Matt Donovan
Scott Turner
Artist & Show Details:
Mike Rice’s previous KC Fringe Fest productions
2016- “John and Leslie are in the Copy Room Again”
2018- “Slurry”
2022- “The Plume”
I was the writer and producer of those shows.
James Rice (verified owner) –
I’m not sure if I’ve ever seen a play like “The Enemies from Within.” Certainly not a pleasant thing to see_ shocking, and I mean shocking, violence, religious fanaticism, racism and a great deal of profanity. But this tale of four political American prisoners, held captive by a Christian Nationalist couple, is the most gripping and heart-stopping production you will see at KC Fringe Festival this year.
Jonas Whalen –
Incredible writing, beautiful acting, and solid directing. The set and prop design was efficient concise and effective in true fringe style. And engaging sound design.
Jessie Salsbury (verified owner) –
This is a very well written and well acted show but it is difficult to watch because of our current political climate and current kidnappings of our government. Highly recommend but just be prepared for this show to bring up big emotions.
Richie Johnson –
This show is superbly written, brilliant, actually. The actors were great!! A few effects that were so well done. But, there should be a warning. If you aren’t ready to be taken down a rabbit hole of what could be in our future, you may not be ready for this.
Susanne Thompson Wright –
Thought provoking. Amazing cast. A sure “don’t miss” this Fringe season. You will be talking about this play for weeks to come.
Ellyd –
Gird your loins, people, should you choose to see this intense, intelligently-written, action-peppered, WTF piece. It’s a tight, feverish performance and strikes uncomfortably at a possible future that doesn’t seem as far-fetched as it might have, say, 7 months ago. Sit away from stage right if you don’t want to be collateral damage. Lordy!
Brad Thoenen (verified owner) –
Moving, thought provoking, quick-witted, fast-paced, and tragically, all too real. Bravo, Mike Rice. This is amazing work!!
Mary Lou Pick –
If I had the talent to write, act, or craft a play like this, all my thoughts and fears of recent times would look very similar to what this drama presents. One can only hope we manage to prevent our present from ever becoming this future ruled by hate.
Luna Seranova –
I knew I wanted to see this play after watching the 60-second preview of it at MTH. This show is unafraid to hand you the hard truth of this not so hard to imagine dystopian future. If you’re someone who feels overwhelmed by all the injustices of our modern world- you may find some validation in this piece. I did love the cliffhanger it ended on as well! All the actors were amazing and I was moved by this work. Highly recommend!
Madison Mize (verified owner) –
This play was absolutely phenomenal. From the very first scene to the final curtain, the characters and storyline keep you completely captivated. It made me laugh, it made me cry, it made me gasp—and at times, it made me deeply uncomfortable in the best way, confronting a reality that feels all too close to home in our current political climate. Any production that can stir that full range of emotions and still linger in your mind long after you leave the theater is a true testament to exceptional writing and powerful performances. If you get the chance to see this, don’t miss it.
Xander McCourt (verified owner) –
A well acted play. Some writing weak points. Somethings that are supposed to come off genuine end up coming off as a parody of itself. But the character work is rather great, Marcus Boston was an interesting character. Definitely worth a watch.
Michael Hilleary –
Pearl clutching cringe
Storm (verified owner) –
Very intense. Well done. Terrifying.
David Luby (verified owner) –
Desirably real. Powerfully gut wrenching. Vision of the not so distant future. Great job Scott and cast. Terrifying. I see an extra chance to see it again tomorrow.
Riki Carter –
Thought-provoking. I left the theatre shook. It felt within the realm of possibility. The man who penned this play is a friend (so I might be biased), but he is brilliant. The character development was amazing. I felt like I could relate to every character. If not personally, they were someone I knew. And that is somewhat scary. The perpetrators of evil truly believed they were doing good. It was ah-mazing. It was dark. It wasn’t happy. But I’m not sorry I invested my time attending it.
Taylor Hudson –
The most immediate and complete theatrical experience of Fringe 2025.