Classic Stage Company has locked in its cast for the upcoming production of Alice Childress’s Wine in the Wilderness, directed by Tony Award winner LaChanze in her New York directorial debut. The play will run from March 6 through April 13, 2025, with opening night set for March 24.
Leading the ensemble is Olivia Washington (I’m A Virgo, Slave Play) as Tommy, with Grantham Coleman (The Great Society, Rustin) stepping into the role of Bill after Tramell Tillman’s departure due to scheduling conflicts. Joining them are Brooks Brantly (Sweat, Ghosts) as Sonny-Man, Lakisha Michelle May (Jaja’s African Hair Braiding, Skeleton Crew) as Cynthia, and Milton Craig Nealy (Caroline, or Change; Once on This Island) as Oldtimer.
Set on a sweltering night during the 1964 Harlem riot, Wine in the Wilderness follows artist Bill Jameson as he searches for the perfect model to complete his triptych on Black womanhood. When he meets Tomorrow Marie, she upends his artistic vision—and his entire perspective—challenging him in ways he never expected.
LaChanze, who captivated audiences in the Broadway revival of Childress’s Trouble in Mind, brings her deep appreciation for the playwright’s work to this production, promising a fresh and powerful take on this underappreciated classic.
The creative team includes Arnulfo Maldonado (Trouble in Mind) on scenic design, Dede Ayite (Jaja’s African Hair Braiding) on costume design, Jeanette Oi-Suk Yew (Kimberly Akimbo) on lighting design, Bill Toles (Kowalski) on sound design, and Nikiya Mathis (Jaja’s African Hair Braiding) on wig and hair design. Jason Weixelman serves as the production stage manager, with casting by X Casting / Victor Vazquez, CSA.
With a powerhouse cast and LaChanze at the helm, Wine in the Wilderness is poised to be one of the season’s most thought-provoking theatrical events.
Stay tuned for ticket details and more updates.