Wayne Brady to Star in 'Ms. Blakk For President' as Vineyard Theatre Announces 2026-27 Season
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Wayne Brady will star in 'Ms. Blakk For President,' the first production announced for Vineyard Theatre's 2026-27 season. The play, co-written by Tina Landau and Tarell Alvin McCraney, follows the story of the first Black drag queen candidate for president in the early 1990s. Performances are scheduled to begin in October 2026.
Facts First
- Wayne Brady will star in the Vineyard Theatre's 2026-27 season opener, 'Ms. Blakk For President'.
- The play is co-written by Tina Landau and Tarell Alvin McCraney, with Landau also directing.
- The story follows Joan Jett Blakk, the first and only Black drag queen candidate for president, set during the early 1990s AIDS epidemic.
- Performances are scheduled to begin on October 15, 2026, with an opening night on November 1, 2026, for a six-week run.
- Vineyard Theatre memberships for the season are on sale, giving members first access to tickets before the public.
What Happened
Vineyard Theatre has announced its 2026-27 season, opening with 'Ms. Blakk For President' starring Wayne Brady. The play, co-written by Tina Landau and Tarell Alvin McCraney with Landau directing, is inspired by the true story of drag performer and activist Terence Alan Smith. It is set in the early 1990s during the AIDS epidemic and follows Joan Jett Blakk and the newly formed Queer Nation Chicago. Performances are scheduled to begin on October 15, 2026, with an opening night on November 1, 2026, for a six-week run.
Why this Matters to You
If you are a theater enthusiast in or near New York City, you may have the opportunity to see a high-profile new work with a celebrated cast and creative team. The production could bring significant attention to Vineyard Theatre's season, potentially making tickets for this and subsequent shows more sought-after. For those interested in stories centered on LGBTQ+ history and activism, this play may offer a notable theatrical exploration of a pivotal era.
What's Next
Vineyard Theatre memberships for the 2026-27 season are currently on sale, which will provide first access to tickets for 'Ms. Blakk For President' and the other two announced season productions. Public ticket sales for the production will occur at a future date. The full creative team and casting beyond Wayne Brady may be announced in the coming months as the 2026 opening approaches.