Internationally acclaimed trumpeter and Cleveland native Dominick Farinacci brings Behind the Lines: A 9/11 Story to Playhouse Square on September 9, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. The performance unites FDNY firefighter Bill Spade, the sole survivor of Rescue Company 5 who responded to the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center, with U.S. Army combat veteran Jaymes Poling, who fought for three years in Afghanistan with the 82nd Airborne Division. Through their remarkable stories, woven together with a cast of renowned musicians led by Farinacci, the production reveals a profound bond forged through courage, sacrifice, and resilience, illuminating the enduring strength of the human spirit. This performance is presented by Playhouse Square and sponsored by University Hospitals. Tickets are currently on sale at playhousesquare.org or by calling 216-241-6000.
Created in Cleveland by Farinacci and Poling over the past year, Behind the Lines: a 9/11 Story is directed by Emmett Murphy and was recently featured at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum at Ground Zero in New York City. Their Playhouse Square performance marks the beginning of a 15-city national tour coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.
“Bringing authentic stories and extraordinary musicians together creates a special and unique way to experience history,” Farinacci says. “25 years after September 11, it is important to honor those lost, and to use this historic moment to spark a larger, sustained conversation about the strength and resilience of first responders, service members and their families.”
Behind the Lines: a 9/11 Story is the second production created by Farinacci and Poling. Their first production Modern Warrior LIVE has toured extensively throughout the U.S. and is deeply integrated within veteran and mental health communities.
This performance builds on a relationship that began in 2025, when Jeanne Lackamp, MD, Chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Director of the Behavioral Health Institute at University Hospitals, brought an adapted version of Modern Warrior LIVE to University Hospitals as a special Grand Rounds presentation. The program drew caregivers from across the health system and sparked meaningful conversations about trauma and resilience.
“This show creates a space where audiences can listen, reflect, and gain a deeper appreciation for the experiences that shape the lives of others,” said Dr. Lackamp. “As healthcare providers, we know every patient brings a unique story. Experiences like this remind us of our patients’ resilience and the importance of truly listening. With teammates caring for veterans through the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System, I was especially passionate about supporting this production.”
The Cleveland debut also comes during an important year for Farinacci, who was recently honored with the 2026 Tri-C JazzFest Legend Award and received a proclamation from Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb recognizing his artistic contributions and longstanding commitment to enriching Cleveland's cultural community.
“Much of my artistic focus in recent years has been to create works that lift up the stories and events that shape our communities,” says Farinacci. “We are grateful to Playhouse Square and University Hospitals for bringing Behind the Lines: a 9/11 Story to Cleveland.”
Behind the Lines: a 9/11 Story will play one performance only at Playhouse Square, Wednesday, September 9, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are currently on sale and can be purchased online at playhousesquare.org or by calling 216-241-6000.