Cygnet Theatre Brings Life to Katori Hall’s ‘The Hot Wing King’ in a Heartfelt Exploration of Identity and Community
As he faces a myriad of personal challenges, former chef Cordell Crutchfield finds himself at a transformative crossroads in his life, as portrayed in Cygnet Theatre’s production of Katori Hall’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, The Hot Wing King. Set against the backdrop of the Memphis “Hot Wing Festival,” the narrative delves into issues of identity, love, and personal reinvention, exploring the dynamics of relationships within the African American LGBTQ+ community.
Rondrell McCormick, who takes on the role of Cordell, expressed the depth of his character’s internal struggles. “He’s experiencing one of the most tumultuous periods in his life,” McCormick stated, likening Cordell’s emotional state to “some Wes Anderson hotel film” that reflects a complex inner dialogue. Cordell’s journey is accentuated by his recent departure from a 20-year marriage and the ensuing transition as he relocates to start anew with his partner, Dwayne, played by Tristan J Shuler.
In this vibrant ensemble, Cordell and Dwayne are supported by their friends Big Charles (Xavier Daniels) and Isom (Kevane La’Marr Coleman), collectively known as the “New Wing Order.” Shuler emphasized the significance of their shared experiences, stating, “Here we are filling this house with gayness, queerness, cooking, love, dancing, and twerking,” highlighting the rich tapestry of their interactions beyond just culinary competition.
The production draws attention to the portrayal of Black male characters in contemporary theater, a point underscored by McCormick. “It’s a stark reminder that we are not a monolith,” he remarked. “Our perspectives and voices are varied and worth celebrating.” The thematic richness and camaraderie among the cast contribute to a sense of authenticity and community that permeates the performance.
While Cordell manages the pressure of onstage cooking—a task McCormick describes as “difficult and daunting”—Dwayne grapples with grief stemming from the tragic loss of his sister, creating a poignant backdrop to their relationship. Shuler elaborated on Dwayne’s emotional journey, noting, “He is juggling a lot of emotional balls,” which adds layers of complexity to their interactions.
The arrival of Dwayne’s nephew, EJ (Jocorey Mitchell), along with his father (Carter Piggee), further complicates the domestic landscape, deepening the exploration of familial bonds and past traumas. Shuler poignantly reflected on the interwoven nature of love and uncertainty in Dwayne’s feelings for Cordell, stating, “This is a hard duality; I love this man, but I’m unsure of his feelings for me.”
The chemistry between McCormick and Shuler is palpable, contributing to their dynamic onstage chemistry. During the audition process, Shuler noted that their connection felt immediate and profound. “It was as if our souls had known each other before,” he said, emphasizing the importance of genuine rapport in delivering a compelling performance.
Katori Hall’s The Hot Wing King invites audiences to savor a celebration of community, identity, and resilience, encouraging a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs experienced by its characters.
Performance Details:
– When: Previews on April 14 at 7 p.m., April 15 at 2 p.m. Official opening on April 15 at 7 p.m. The show runs through May 2, with performances at 7 p.m., Wednesdays through Fridays; 2 and 7 p.m. on Saturdays; and 2 p.m. on Sundays.
– Where: Cygnet Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town State Historic Park, San Diego.
– Tickets: Available from .
– Contact: 619-337-1525.
– Website: cygnettheatre.org
Originally Published: April 11, 2025, at 6:00 AM PDT.
