THE HOT WING KING by Katori Hall
Director: Darnell Pierre Benjamin
WHEN: Sunday, January 18th from 6-8pm
WHERE: 126 N. Main St 2nd Floor, Dayton OH 45402
This is an open audition call, so please prepare two contemporary contrasting monologues. We are encouraging folks that we’ve not seen before (or haven’t seen in a while) to use these time slots.
All roles are paid, and you do not need to be a member of Actors Equity to audition.
You can sign up for an appointment right here:
https://airtable.com/appGaHh6mJGdCiqvc/shrJYWHTRl5MOwOpn
First Rehearsal: May 11, 2026
Performances: June 3 – 14, 2026
A Regional Premiere
It’s time for the annual “Hot Wang Festival” in Memphis Tennessee, and Cordell Crutchfield knows he has the wings that’ll make him king. Supported by his beau Dwayne and their culinary clique, The New Wing Order, Cordell is marinating and firing up his frying pan in a bid to reclaim the crispy crown. When Dwayne takes in his troubled nephew, however, it becomes a recipe for disaster. Suddenly a first-place trophy isn’t the only thing Cordell risks losing.
Cordell (40s) — the head chef of the clique. Recently emerged from the closet to co-habitate with Dwayne. In a not so former life, had a wife and 2 kids.
Dwayne (40s) — might not be the head chef but is the head of the household. Holds Cordell and everyone down. Has been a mentor to his struggling nephew for years. Holds resentment towards Cordell for taking so long to legitimize their relationship
Isom (30s) — new friend. Play lists includes gospel and trap and that’s exactly how he talks. Met the duo at church.
Big Charles (40s) — old friend. Met the duo at the barber shop. Observant, laid-back. The Rock.
Everett “EJ” (16) — Dwayne’s nephew. In need of guidance and a new home
TJ (35) — Everett’s father. A long-time dealer who is “about that life” Struggles with teaching his son how to be a man, but unsure if Cordell and Dwayne can be good father figures to his son.


