Lumen Repertory Theatre has announced the world premiere of “Harlan and Bronna Jump Out the Window,” an original dark comedy written and directed by Emmy Award-winner Michael Jacobs.
This richly theatrical work about privilege, partnership and the quiet hope of redemption will run Sept. 19 through Oct. 4 in Betsy Lovett Hall at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church.
Set in a world collapsing both literally and figuratively, “Harlan and Bronna Jump Out the Window” follows Upper East Siders Harlan and Bronna Russell as they resolve to spend their dwindled fortune in spectacular fashion, only to find themselves in a philosophical reckoning about legacy, love and the people they’ve never truly seen.
Balancing absurdity and sincerity, the play’s surreal elements and small ensemble demand sharp comic timing, emotional nuance and fearless embodiment of character status, making its exploration of wealth, consequence and perception especially resonant today.
“This world premiere marks a major artistic and cultural milestone for Northeast Florida,” said Artistic Director Brian Niece. “Michael Jacobs, whose work spans Broadway and iconic television like ‘Boy Meets World’ has brought his latest story to life here first, before any potential future in New York or film. That Jacksonville is the launch point for this project positions the city as an emerging cultural incubator and affirms the value of bold professional regional theatre.”
The collaboration was catalyzed by a longstanding personal connection: Lumen Rep Board President Rob Edenzon and Michael Jacobs were high-school classmates in New Jersey. At Edenzon’s invitation, Jacobs researched Lumen Rep’s creative vision and professional rigor, and was so impressed that he chose Jacksonville as the birthplace of this new work, directing the premiere himself and laying the groundwork for conversations with future collaborators in New York and Los Angeles about the play’s next life.
The world-premiere production features a local professional cast including Jeff Drushal, Karen Konzen, Bill Ratliff, Josh Andrews and newcomer Flynn Linning.
As Jacksonville’s only Equity-affiliated professional nonprofit theatre company, Lumen Rep remains committed to paying fair wages and reinvesting in the artists who bring its vision to life.
An exclusive opening night gala sponsored by Intuition Ale Works will be hosted in Craig Lounge at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Sept. 19, followed by the performance at 7:30 p.m.
Gala attendees (gala + opening night performance ticket, $85) will have the opportunity to mix and mingle with Jacobs, theatre representatives from New York City, members of the cast and creative team, Lumen Rep staff and other cultural influencers.
Beer, wine and heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served. All gala participants will be entered into a drawing to win several pairs of 2026 season tickets or a signed, limited-edition show poster.
The opening night performance alone is available for $45.
Additional performances are:
Tickets are $45 general admission; high-school and college students attend free with valid ID under the NEXTGEN initiative (reserve at lumenrep.org using code NEXTGEN).
