Friends Form #TeamChaiLatte to Support Actor Assaulted at Metro Station

Friends and the D.C.-area theater community sprung into action after local actor Frank Britton, 34, was brutally assaulted and robbed this week following the opening night performance of Forum Theater’s “The Last Days of Judas Iscariot” at the Roundhouse Theater in Silver Spring.

Britton, starring as Pontius Pilate, was allegedly one of the last to leave a cast party on Colesville Road around 1:45 a.m. Tuesday, according to WJLA. Friends told the news station that Britton had planned to take a cab home.

Moments later, four men attacked Britton outside the Silver Spring Metro station around 2:30 a.m., stealing his phone and bag, Forum Theater’s artistic director, Michael Dove told the Washington Post.

“[They] smashed his face in pretty badly,” Dove told the Post.

Because Britton does not have medical insurance, friends and members of the D.C. theater community rallied to support him. A GoFundMe site entitled “Frank Britton’s Recovery Fund” was created with a goal of $3,000. As of Thursday morning, the fund has reached $46,880 through donations from 1,258 people.

Britton, who suffered multiple injuries to his face and head, according to WJLA, underwent surgery at Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring on Wednesday.

#TeamChaiLatte, a reference coming from a nickname given to Britton, has been posted all through social media to support him.

“It’s beyond description how I feel,” Britton told Patch. “I’m just so full of joy and gratitude and love, and I’m just amazed at the outpouring of support. I couldn’t be any more loved, and I’m so thankful.”

A Facebook page entitled “Friends of Frank Britton” has reached 960 members. According to the description on the page, Britton’s right cheekbone was shattered. Members of the group are signing up to deliver meals to Britton upon his release from the hospital -- that date is still to be determined -- and have been posting updates about his condition. Friends have also ensured there is someone at the hospital with Britton at all times.

A #TeamChaiLatte Karaoke Benefit Fundraiser has also been set for June 10 at 9 p.m. in order to raise more money to support Britton’s recovery. The benefit is hosted by Kostume Karaoke and District Karaoke and slated to be a pay-to-perform with all proceeds going to Britton’s recovery fund.

Britton said that he is so appreciative of the love and support that he has been receiving because it is the only thing that has been helping him get through.

“The people visiting and calling and posting on social media, it’s just been wonderful,” Britton said. “I haven’t felt sad or depressed about it. I’m truly thankful.”

Britton said that he will likely leave the hospital on Friday.

According to The Washington Post, performances of “The Last Days of Judas Iscariot” will continue with Britton’s role done by an understudy. The artistic team will continually re-evaluate during Britton’s recovery.

“Well, folks know how hardcore I am,” Britton said. “A friend of mine might be going on for me for the rest of the week. I aim to be back by next week.”

This is Britton’s third time performing in “The Last Days of Judas Iscariot.” He performed in this role six years ago in the original run in April 2008 and again six months after in the remount.

“It was a great opening night,” Britton said of the opening performance hours before the assault.

The play will continue its run through June 14.

Britton has acted in productions with WSC Avant Bard, Round House, and Spooky Action, along with other local D.C. theaters.

Montgomery police spokesman Lt. Tom Jordan told The Post that no arrests have yet been made.

Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives at 240-773-6800.