The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) is set to bring the acclaimed play The Hot Wing King, written by Katori Hall, to its stage.
This heartwarming and humorous piece examines themes of race, queerness, and family against the backdrop of the American South.
We had the opportunity to speak with actor Corey Wiley, who portrays Dwayne in the production, about his insights and experiences bringing this powerful story to life.
Wiley noted that the setting of the play, Memphis, Tennessee, may resonate differently with Denver audiences compared to other portrayals of LGBTQ+ stories.
He said, “It’s certainly possible, specifically in the language. Generally, gay culture stems from the major coastal cities. But I think this play demonstrates that there are many commonalities that connect the community across the country, specifically for Black people.”
The play, which won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2021, follows Cordell Crutchfield and his partner Dwayne as they prepare for Memphis’s annual Hot Wang Festival.
Cordell believes he has finally perfected a winning wing sauce recipe that will earn him the prestigious title of Hot Wang King.
He assembles a team, including Dwayne and friends Big Charles and Isom, to help him achieve victory.
However, their preparation takes an unexpected turn with a family emergency, creating tension and steering the recipe off course.
When asked about his favorite aspect of the production, Wiley expressed his appreciation for being part of the DCPA.
He exclaimed, “Honestly, I love that we’re at DCPA! The arts community here is incredible and incredibly smart.
My hope is that audiences will come to this play ready to laugh out loud and perhaps see themselves, and people they love, in each of these characters.”
Amidst a backdrop of recent attacks on LGBTQ+ rights, the DCPA’s commitment to producing works that celebrate this community shines as a beacon of hope.
The narrative of Dwayne and Cordell centers around their relationship, showcasing the complexities of navigating life as Black, gay individuals while confronting the responsibilities that come with family.
In particular, the story delves into the concept of chosen or found family, a crucial theme within LGBTQ+ discussions, given the societal rejection some individuals face due to their sexual orientation.
Wiley succinctly summarized this by stating, “At its core, (it’s) a family story.
An unconventional family, but a family nonetheless.
The point of view is gay and Black, but the struggle to care for and nurture family, well, that theme is as universal as it gets.”
The Hot Wing King will grace the DCPA’s Kilstrom Theatre stage from April 25 to May 25.
Tickets are available through the DCPA website, offering audiences a chance to support local arts while enjoying a night of laughter and reflection.
image source from：https://www.outfrontmagazine.com/queer-dramedy-the-hot-wing-king-comes-to-denver/
