LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – A counterclaim filed by the defendants in a suit brought by the Argenta Contemporary Theatre (ACT) alleges a history of abuse and fraud by the theatre’s principals.

ACT filed a lawsuit against 13 former employees in September. The lawsuit alleges that the group, which formed Stage 13, committed corporate sabotage and theft when they left ACT in a mass resignation on Aug. 24.

The counterclaim from Stage 13 alleges a history of abuse and fraud by ACT leadership, including board members and its founder. Included with the filings are recordings of conversations where derogatory language was allegedly used toward the 13 while they were still with ACT, and others. Unwanted touching is also alleged, as is retaliation against employees who raised concerns.

The counterclaim c

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