Tony Award-winning actress Phylicia Rashad is bringing her directorial expertise to North Carolina’s Blumenthal Arts this summer. The acclaimed performer will direct the regional premiere of Paul Oakley Stovall’s “Immediate Family” at the Booth Playhouse. The production runs from July 29 to August 31, marking the play’s East Coast debut after successful runs in Chicago and Los Angeles.
Rashad previously directed this compelling family drama at Los Angeles’s Mark Taper Forum, where it received critical acclaim. The play explores complex themes of race, sexuality, and religion through the lens of a Black family reunion gone awry. This latest production continues Rashad’s commitment to bringing powerful African American stories to theater stages across the country.
The announcement comes fresh off Rashad’s recent Broadway success, where her latest project won the Tony Award for Best Musical. Her involvement in “Immediate Family” demonstrates her continued dedication to developing meaningful theatrical works that resonate with diverse audiences.
Immediate Family Tackles Complex Themes Through Sharp-Witted Family Drama
“Immediate Family” centers on the Bryant family reunion, which spirals into chaos when the middle son arrives with his boyfriend. The unexpected guest triggers a series of revelations that expose deep-seated family dysfunction and hidden tensions. The play masterfully blends comedy with serious social commentary, creating what critics describe as a fusion of “Modern Family” with “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.”
Writer Paul Oakley Stovall crafted this bold narrative to address contemporary issues within the Black family structure. The story examines how traditional values clash with modern realities, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ acceptance within religious families. Race, sexuality, and religious beliefs become central conflicts that drive the dramatic tension throughout the production.
The play’s sharp wit and authentic dialogue create both comedic moments and profound emotional depth. Stovall’s writing captures the complexity of family relationships while addressing societal issues that many families face today. The production offers audiences both entertainment and meaningful reflection on acceptance, love, and understanding.
Tony Award-Winning Phylicia Rashad Brings Decades of Theater Excellence
Rashad’s impressive theater credentials span multiple decades and include two Tony Awards along with numerous Emmy nominations. Her Broadway performances have included iconic roles as Big Mama in “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and Aunt Ester in “Gem of the Ocean.” She earned particular acclaim for her portrayal of Lena Younger in the revival of “A Raisin in the Sun,” which garnered her a Tony Award.
Her directorial experience includes helming several August Wilson productions, including “Gem of the Ocean,” “Fences,” and “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone.” Additionally, she has directed Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun,” demonstrating her deep connection to African American theatrical traditions. Her Theater Hall of Fame induction recognizes her significant contributions to American theater.
Beyond her stage work, Rashad’s television career includes her beloved role as Clair Huxtable on “The Cosby Show,” which made her a household name. Her transition between screen and stage showcases her versatility as a performer and creative artist. This diverse experience enriches her approach to directing contemporary works like “Immediate Family.”
Paul Oakley Stovall Creates Powerful Narrative Drawing from Personal Experience
Playwright Paul Oakley Stovall brings impressive credentials to this production as a Tony Award-winning multihyphenate artist. His previous work includes producing the Olivier-nominated “A Strange Loop,” which later won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. He also portrayed George Washington in the first national tour of “Hamilton,” demonstrating his range as both performer and creator.
Stovall’s writing for “Immediate Family” draws from authentic experiences within the Black community regarding family dynamics and acceptance. His ability to balance humor with serious social commentary creates a narrative that entertains while challenging audiences to examine their own beliefs. The play’s success in Chicago and Los Angeles validates his approach to tackling difficult subjects through compelling storytelling.
The collaboration between Stovall and Rashad represents a powerful partnership between two accomplished African American theater artists. Their shared vision for bringing authentic Black stories to the stage creates a production that honors both artistic excellence and cultural authenticity. This creative alliance ensures that “Immediate Family” maintains its emotional impact while reaching new audiences.
Blumenthal Arts Cast Features Talented Ensemble of Diverse Performers
The North Carolina production features a carefully selected cast that brings depth and authenticity to the Bryant family story. Christina Sajous takes on the role of Evy, while Elijah Jones portrays Jesse, the son whose arrival with his boyfriend sets the family drama in motion. Freddie Fulton plays Tony, and Andy Mientus embodies Kristian, the boyfriend whose presence challenges family dynamics.
Kai Almeda Heath joins the cast as Nina, with Britney Coleman rounding out the main ensemble as Ronnie. The production also includes standby actors Deon Releford-Lee, Samuel Douglas, Aigner Mizzelle, and Vanessa R. Butler, ensuring consistent performance quality throughout the run. This diverse cast brings various perspectives and experiences to the production.
The casting choices reflect Rashad’s commitment to authentic representation in her directorial work. Each actor brings unique strengths to their roles, creating a cohesive ensemble that can navigate the play’s emotional complexity. The mix of established and emerging talent provides both experience and fresh energy to the production.
North Carolina Audiences Can Experience This Groundbreaking Production
Theater enthusiasts in North Carolina have the opportunity to witness this powerful production at the Blumenthal Arts Booth Playhouse. The show runs from July 29 through August 31, providing multiple opportunities for audiences to experience this compelling family drama. Tickets are available through BlumenthalArts.org, making it accessible for local theater lovers.
The regional premiere brings this acclaimed production to East Coast audiences who may not have had the chance to see it in Chicago or Los Angeles. North Carolina’s theater community benefits from hosting such high-caliber productions that showcase African American artistic excellence. The production adds to the state’s growing reputation as a destination for quality theatrical experiences.
This engagement also demonstrates the continuing evolution of regional theater in presenting diverse stories that reflect America’s multicultural landscape. Productions like “Immediate Family” help broaden the scope of stories told on American stages while providing opportunities for meaningful dialogue about family, acceptance, and love.
