Luna Stage Extends Run of “Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library” Through Early November

Luna Stage in West Orange has announced that its acclaimed production of Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library will continue performances through Sunday, November 9, 2025. The tense psychological drama, directed by Luna Stage Artistic Director Ari Laura Kreith, transports audiences to Berlin in 1933, exploring the perilous world of Nazi Germany through the lens of one of the 20th century’s most iconic thinkers, Hannah Arendt.

The play, inspired by real events, follows a young Gestapo officer who interrogates graduate student Hannah Arendt, portrayed by Ella Dershowitz, as she pursues research deemed illegal by the regime. Brett Temple plays the officer whose investigations put Arendt in imminent danger. The narrative delves into themes of surveillance, intellectual freedom, and moral courage, creating a suspenseful yet profoundly human story as Arendt seeks a way to escape Nazi oppression.

Critics have praised the production for its gripping storytelling and exceptional performances. The play has been recognized as one of the “Best Dramas of the Year” by This Week in New York and secured a spot on Theaterscene’s 10 Best List, further cementing its status as a standout in contemporary theater.

Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library was written by Jenny Lyn Bader and first developed at Luna Stage in 2019. After its initial premiere, the play enjoyed runs Off-Broadway in New York and in Massachusetts, bringing national attention back to the West Orange theater. Luna Stage’s return production features the original cast and continues the company’s commitment to producing bold, challenging work that resonates with modern audiences.

Performances are held at Luna Stage, located at 555 Valley Road, West Orange, with all tickets offered on a pay-what-you-choose basis. This pricing model reflects the theater’s ongoing commitment to equity and accessibility, ensuring that high-quality professional theater is available to all members of the community regardless of financial means. The venue is conveniently located near the Highland Avenue NJ Transit station, and a parking lot is accessible off Hazel Avenue.

Since its founding in 1992, Luna Stage has earned a reputation as a leading regional theater dedicated to developing new plays and fostering community engagement. The company emphasizes presenting work that reflects the rich diversity of the Valley Arts District and beyond, offering educational programs, artist residencies, and classes for all ages. The theater’s productions have not only premiered locally but often gone on to be staged in New York and other cities across the country, highlighting its role as an incubator for innovative theatrical work.

With its return production of Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library, Luna Stage continues to combine historical insight with contemporary relevance, offering audiences an intense theatrical experience that challenges, educates, and engages. For more information on performances, schedules, and tickets, as well as additional regional theater offerings, visit Explore New Jersey Theatre.