Broadway actor Michael Milligan brings his gripping one-man play, “Mercy Killers,” to this area for six free performances Mar. 28 Apr. 2. The play presents the heartbreaking dilemma of a young couple when faced with a life-threatening illness.

The play opens just after Joe has been hauled into the police station. He is being questioned about the death of his wife. In emotional statements to the officer, he reveals their deep love, their affection for the wild places of West Virginia, the anguish of her illness, and their inability to afford treatment. We empathize as we see how Joe’s beliefs in self-reliance and the American dream are shaken.

“Over 60 percent of all bankruptcies in the U.S. are the result of medical debt – and in a majority of these, the person actually had insurance” says Milligan. “I wrote ‘Mercy Killers’ to put a human face on those statistics.”

Each performance will be followed by an opportunity to ask questions of the actor/playwright and by a moderated discussion of the issues for those who wish to stay.

Admission is free. Donations to cover a small stipend for the actor will be gratefully accepted.

Free performances will take place on: Friday, Mar. 28, 7 p.m., Ice House, 138 Independence St., Berkeley Springs; Saturday, Mar. 29, 1:30 p.m., Fisherman’s Hall, 312 South West St., Charles Town; Sunday, March 30, 2 p.m., Opera House, 131 W. German St., Shepherdstown; Monday, Mar. 31, 7 p.m., Calvary Church, 220 W. Burke St., Martinsburg; Tuesday, April 1, 7 p.m., Baha’i Regional Center, 308 S. Buchannan St., Ranson; and Wednesday, Apr. 2, 12:30 p.m., Erma Ora Byrd Nursing Hall Auditorium, Shepherd University.

The play keeps the audience on the edge of tears, the edge of laughter,and the edge of their seats. Receiving 5 stars from The Scotsman and winning the 2013 Fringe First Award at the Edinburgh Festival, Mercy Killers wins high praise from critics:

For more information: mercykillerswv.wordpress.com/.