Actor-writer Rodney Hicks is bringing a new theatrical work to New York City for a one-night-only event.
Hicks’ latest play, inhaleEXHALE, will receive a staged reading on February 23 at The Laurie Beechman Theatre, with Josh Rhodes directing.
Set inside a fictional museum exhibit titled The Understanding America Tour, inhaleEXHALE unfolds through a series of interconnected vignettes led by four tour guides tasked with walking visitors through the contradictions, tensions, and shared humanity that shape life in the U.S. Blending comedy with sharper emotional turns, the play examines identity, privilege, history, and love — often in the same breath.
The reading features a strong ensemble of Broadway and stage favorites, including Christopher J. Hanke, Crystal Lucas Perry, Michael James Scott, and Elizabeth Stanley, who portray the tour guides and multiple characters encountered throughout the exhibit.
While inhaleEXHALE marks a new chapter for the piece, the work has roots in Hicks’ earlier play FLAMEBROILED, or the ugly play, which was produced in 2019 at Colorado’s Local Theatre Company. This updated iteration sharpens the lens, leaning into humor, discomfort, and moments of unexpected tenderness.
Hicks is best known for his extensive stage career, including originating the role of Bob in Come From Away and appearing on Broadway in The Scottsboro Boys, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Rent, where he was part of the show’s historic opening-night ensemble.
The February 23 event will take place at 7 p.m., with admission priced at $30 plus a $25 food and drink minimum. A portion of the evening’s proceeds will benefit the Human Rights Campaign. Audience members should note that the play includes strong language and explores mature themes related to race and sexuality through humor.
Tickets and additional information are available via inhaleEXHALE.online.