The Black Mountain Center for the Arts (BMCA) is launching its 2026–2027 theatre season with the premiere of Examination, a gripping dystopian drama opening Friday, September 11. Serving as the inaugural production of the center’s theatrical slate, the play runs through September 20 in BMCA’s intimate, 80-seat Gale Jackson Theatre.
Based on a story by Jakob Schmidt and adapted for the stage by playwright and director Erin Schmidt, Examination follows Jax, a 15-year-old attempting to survive within a fractured, unforgiving society. Jax forms an unexpected bond with Neveen, an eccentric teenager from a wealthy background. Their friendship reaches a tense turning point after Jax realizes an otherworldly entity is pulling the strings behind local events, culminating in a tragic incident and a high-stakes interrogation by authorities. Grounded in intense character dynamics, the play tackles themes of free will, morality, and human connection in times of crisis.
“Examination is poignant for today’s audiences because it explores the pressures, uncertainties, and moral dilemmas that many of us are feeling,” says playwright Erin Schmidt. “We’re excited to bring the show to BMCA.”
Designed specifically for an intimate stage, the production emphasizes ensemble-driven drama and immersive staging, balancing emotional weight with pulse-pounding audience interaction to put viewers right in the middle of the story.
Performance Schedule & Admission Details:
- Dates: September 11–13 and September 18–20, 2026
- Times: Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. | Sunday Matinees at 2:00 p.m.
- Location: Gale Jackson Theatre at BMCA, 225 W. State Street, Black Mountain, NC
- Tickets: $20 (General Admission; doors open 30 minutes prior to curtain)
Advance tickets and season details are available online at blackmountainarts.org/theatre or at the BMCA office.
