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Cast Members of Charm Charm the Press

Will Davis directs Philip Dawkins’s script about Mama Darleena Andrews — a 67-year-old black transgender woman — who takes it upon herself to teach an etiquette class at Chicago’s LGBTQ community center.

Off-Broadway
The company of Charm, directed by Will Davis, meet the press.
The company members of Charm, directed by Will Davis, meet the press.
(© David Gordon)

The company members of MCC's Charm took a break from rehearsal today to meet the press. Performances of Philip Dawkins's drama are set to begin August 31.

Director Will Davis (left) and playwright Philip Dawkins (right) take a photo with Miss Gloria Allen (center), whose life the play is based o
Director Will Davis (left) and playwright Philip Dawkins (right) take a photo with Miss Gloria Allen (center), whose life inspired the play.
(© David Gordon)

Sandra Caldwell will play the lead role of Mama Darleena Andrews. Joining her are Michael David Baldwin, Jojo Brown, Marky Irene Diven, Michael Lorz, Hailie Sahar, Kelli Simpkins, Marquise Vilson, and Lauren F. Walker.

Under the direction of Will Davis, the creative team will include Arnulfo Maldonado (scenic design), Oana Botez (costume design), Tony nominee Ben Stanton (lighting design), and Palmer Hefferan (sound design).

Star Sandra Caldwell (right) gets a photo with Miss Gloria Allen (left).
Star Sandra Caldwell (right) gets a photo with Miss Gloria Allen (left).
(© David Gordon)

Inspired by the true story of Miss Gloria Allen, Charm is described as follows: "When Mama Darleena Andrews — a 67-year-old black transgender woman — takes it upon herself to teach an etiquette class at Chicago's LGBTQ community center, the idealistic teachings of Emily Post clash with the very real life challenges of identity, poverty, and prejudice faced by her students."

''For tickets and more information, click here.