Baltimore Center Stage has announced the full cast for the world premiere of Bocking, running August 14 through September 6, 2026, with opening night on August 22.
Written by playwright, actor and musician Preston Crowder and directed by Tony Award-nominated, Obie Award-winning BCS Artistic Director Stevie Walker-Webb, Bocking begins when two children innocently repeat something overheard at home, landing their very embarrassed parents in the principal’s office. What follows is a chaotic chain of events involving a preacher, a so-called gay exorcism and a mysterious chicken named Danalana Parmesana. As the situation escalates, long-buried secrets, personal quirks and social taboos rise to the surface in a comedy that refuses to behave.
The cast features Kalen Allen as Erikson, Marchant Davis as Javon Wing, Sis Thee Doll as Rita Day, Rebecca Hargrove as Tianna Wing, Adrienne C. Moore as Stacey, Christopher Sears as Peer Day and Lance Coadie Williams as Reverend White.
Bocking marks Lena Waithe’s return to Baltimore Center Stage as presenting producer, following the February premiere of trinity, which marked her playwriting and theatrical acting debut.
Crowder’s playwriting has been recognized by the National Black Theatre’s Soul Series, the Obsidian Theatre Festival and the Del Shores Foundation Writers Search. His previous works include Black to Save the Day, My Dead Boyfriend Is a Robot and Don’t Look Back.
Bocking launches Baltimore Center Stage’s 2026 to 2027 season, curated by Producing Director Ken-Matt Martin and Walker-Webb.
This production contains explicit language and adult content. Parental discretion is advised. Tickets are available at centerstage.org/events/bocking, by calling the BCS Box Office at 410-332-0033, or in person at 700 North Calvert Street, Baltimore, MD 21202.