When a play sparks sold-out events, community-wide conversation, and a flurry of emotional social media posts, you know it’s struck a chord. That’s exactly what’s happening with “Immediate Family,” the raw and resonant new production currently captivating audiences at the Booth Playhouse, part of Blumenthal Arts in Charlotte, N.C. Originally scheduled to end Aug. 31, the show’s run has been extended through Sept. 7 due to overwhelming demand.
Written by Hamilton’s Paul Oakley Stovall and directed by the legendary Phylicia Rashad, “Immediate Family” is a complex and courageous comedy-drama that dives into the intersection of race, sexuality and familial expectations. Part of Blumenthal’s 2024–2025 PNC Broadway Lights series, the show marks its regional premiere right here in Charlotte, a city that continues to embrace diverse stories and world-class performance.
Set in a middle-class Chicago home, Immediate Family follows Jesse, a Black gay man returning home for a family wedding. When he reveals not only his sexuality but introduces his white partner to the family, a layered and sometimes explosive conversation begins. A conversation that addresses hidden prejudices, unspoken grief, sibling tension and the complicated beauty of love in all its forms.
“It is one of the most compelling comedy-dramas I’ve ever seen,” said Jermaine Nakia Lee, Creative Consultant for Blumenthal Arts. Lee plays a critical role in shaping inclusive engagement strategies for Blumenthal, especially as they relate to Black and LGBTQ+ audiences.
“This is a conversation many families are still afraid to have,” Lee added. “The play deals with Black identity, queerness, interracial relationships and family expectations in a way that is both uncomfortable and liberating. It’s funny, it’s raw and it’s so necessary.”
The excitement surrounding “Immediate Family” soared when it was announced that Phylicia Rashad, best known for her role as Clair Huxtable on The Cosby Show and her numerous accolades on Broadway, would not only direct the show, but also appear in Charlotte on July 28 for a special community conversation alongside playwright Paul Oakley Stovall and the cast. The event sold out immediately, confirming Charlotte’s growing appetite for high-caliber, inclusive art experiences.
“It’s an absolute honor,” said Lee. “Charlotte has become a city that doesn’t just tolerate the arts; it embraces them. The leadership here is investing in culture because they understand that to be a world-class city, we must support world-class storytelling.”
The cast, which includes Christina Sajous (Evy), Elijah Jones (Jesse), Freddie Fulton (Tony), Andy Mientus (Kristian), Kai Almeda Heath (Nina) and Britney Coleman (Ronnie), has been praised for bringing powerful emotional authenticity to every performance. And audiences are walking away transformed.
“Great evening, beautiful souls!” wrote P. Jackson, a local theatergoer. “Immediate Family at the Blumenthal Arts, Booth Playhouse is an unforgettable experience that will touch your heart and soul. If this powerful performance doesn’t resonate deeply within you, revealing parts of yourself or someone you know, then perhaps you need to look closer – it’s truly a must see!”
As someone who attended the show, this writer wholeheartedly agrees. “Immediate Family” stirred up a variety of emotions as it touched on real-life issues, things many of us have felt but struggled to express. The awkwardness of generational misunderstandings, the pain of hiding who you are, and the deep desire for acceptance. It’s all there, wrapped in sharp dialogue, heartfelt performances and unexpected laughter.
One of the play’s most nuanced layers is its handling of interracial relationships in the Black LGBTQ+ community. “It’s not just about being gay,” Lee explained. “There’s also a deep family reaction to Jesse being in a relationship with a white man. And that’s a real conversation in our culture. Some people look at it like, ‘Okay, you’re gay – and now you’re not even dating someone who understands your Black experience?’ It’s complicated.”
Lee emphasized the importance of representing Black love on stage: “I’ve always taken pride in Black love. I see it as revolutionary. And while I believe love is love, no matter who it’s with, I’m also intentional about valuing love that reflects cultural and historical understanding. That’s not judgment; it’s just part of my identity.”
The play never preaches. Instead, it holds space for all these emotions to be felt and explored. It’s a mirror for many in the audience to confront their own biases, yearnings and truths.
Beyond the performance, “Immediate Family” also reflects the broader cultural momentum of Charlotte itself. “Charlotte still feels like a gold rush city,” said Lee. “If you have a dream, a vision, something to create—this is the place. We’re not at a plateau like some other cities. There’s still room and hunger for growth.”The City of Charlotte launched initiatives like the Creative Growth Grant accessible to individual artists and major organizations alike. It is clear the Queen City is prioritizing cultural development in meaningful ways.
“There are big cities that don’t support their artists like this,” Lee said. “Charlotte’s evolving. And I’m here for it.”
Directed by Phylicia Rashad with sensitivity and brilliance, “Immediate Family” is more than just a play – it’s an invitation to reflect, heal and laugh. It opens hearts. It challenges minds. It encourages dialogue.
“Immediate Family” was written by Paul Oakley Stovall and directed by Phylicia Rashad. It is currently staging at the Booth Playhouse through Sept. 7. For tickets and additional information, visit www.blumenthalarts.org.