The New York premiere of Philip Dawkins’ Charm concludes its extended run October 15 at the Lucille Lortel Theatre. The story is inspired by and dedicated to the real-life Miss Gloria Allen, a black transgender woman who changed the lives of students at Chicago’s LGBTQ community center, Center on Halsted.
Read: HOW MCC THEATER’S CHARM IS CHANGING THE GAME FOR TRANS ACTORS AND THEIR ONSTAGE STORIES
Charm tells the story of Mama Darleena Andrews, a 67-year-old, black, transgender woman who leads an etiquette class at Chicago’s LGBTQ community center, and asks what happens when the idealistic teachings of etiquette guru Emily Post clash with the very real challenges of identity, poverty, and prejudice.
The production from MCC Theater with direction by Will Davis began performances August 31 and officially opened September 18. Read reviews here.
Sandra Caldwell stars as Mama Darleena Andrews, the character based on Miss Gloria Allen. Rounding out the cast are Michael David Baldwin, Jojo Brown, Marky Irene Diven, Michael Lorz, Hailie Sahar, Emmy nominee Kelli Simpkins, Marquise Vilson, and Lauren F. Walker.
The production features scenic design by Arnulfo Maldonado, costume design by Oana Botez, lighting design by two-time Tony nominee Ben Stanton, and sound design by Palmer Hefferan. Casting is by Telsey + Company/Adam Caldwell, William Cantler, Karyn Casl.
Flip though photos from the show: