The Wilma Theatre presents Fat Ham

Fat Ham Written by James Ijames and directed by Amina Robinson is a classic comedic interpretation of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. However I know for a fact you haven’t seen it done quite like this. This story follows a queer boy named Juicy who has to avenge his dead father after his mother married the deceased’s brother. This is witty, engaging, provocative, and timely and you need to see this beautiful masterpiece unfold. IN

Fat Ham at The Willma Theatre #2 (L to R_ Brenson Thomas and Lindsay Smiling) Photo by Austin Johanna

Before you go to see Fat Ham

This is production is not for children. There is strong adult language, sexual energy, and adult themes. I stress that but you should make your decision on what you want your child to see. Make sure that you get to the theatre at least 30 minutes before the start of the show to find seating, grab a snack, and more. The show runs a little under 2 hours with no intermission. You can expect to be challenged in your thinking. It will make you smile, respond, and feel. There could be some triggers as they discuss death, sexuality, being seen, and more.

Opening Night Highlights

I attended with my daughter the opening night of Fat Ham. I stress again as I stated above that you have to make the best decision for you and your family however this show is an adult heavy production. We enjoyed being in the same room with the Playwright, James Ijames and the Director, Amina Robinson. I’ve been to other productions of James Ijames but never have I ever been in the same room as he. Each production of his that I have been have always challenged me to think beyond what I see and hear. A special shout out to Pa’Lante with Feer-Tree who provided the patrons with Blooming Botanical Rum Punch. There was also Victory Brewing Company and Yards Brewing Company. One thing about The Wilma Theatre they definitely know how to hold an after show party and celebration.

Fat Ham at The Wilma Theater #4 (L to R_ Lindsay Smiling and Anthony Martinez-Briggs)

The Acting was Phenomenal

When I say every person who graced the stage was phenomenal I truly mean that. The amount of emotion and passion was on full display. For instance, Brenson Thomas who plays Juicy definitely was captivating. I enjoyed how the production showcased him speaking to the crowd as if the play wasn’t happening. It gave us prospective as many of the sidebar conversations was things that many of us were thinking as it unfolded. Every actor and actress was phenomenal in every way. Many of them I had seen them in other productions and it was good to see them in this production.

Fat Ham at The Wilma Theater #7 (L to R_ Zuhairah McGill and Donnie Hammond)

The Many Layers in Fat Ham

What I loved beyond the acting and the stage presence of Fat Ham is the layering of messaging that is there. One thing that I loved was all about the Black joy that was on full display. There was the interaction between Larry and Juicy when the concept of being soft came up. Upon hearing it you may have a negative thought but so many men especially Black men aren’t able to simply be themselves. The thought that they have to be strong all the time is a cause of stress. I enjoyed the freeness in the midst of this tragedy.

Fat Ham at The Wilma Theatre #13 (L to R_ Brandon J. Pierce and Brenson Thomas)

Fat Ham also showed the dynamic of family and how detrimental family plays on your ability to be in your space as you are. The way in which the family dynamic played out was outrageous but in a way I felt a sense of normality. It’s something about about a barbeque that can bring people together and highlight some truths.

Fat Ham at The Wilma Theater #1 (L to R_ Anthony Martinez-Briggs and Brenson Thomas)

Fat Ham is a must see. The other day I was going to another theatre and my daughter who I took to see it with me stated how she wanted to see it again. The show has now been extended until December 30, 2023. Make sure you see this Pulitzer Prize winning and 5 time Tony nominated production. Tickets are available now. Thank you to The Wilma Theatre and En Route Marketing.