The Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Fat Ham” has launched the 10th anniversary season at Detroit Public Theatre, offering a fresh take on Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” through a modern lens. Set against the backdrop of a family cookout, “Fat Ham” intertwines themes of love, loss, and the search for identity in the face of societal pressures. It runs through Nov. 3. 

The play, written by James Ijames, centers on Juicy, a Black queer man navigating the complexities of family and identity as he is confronted by the ghost of his father who demands vengeance for his murder. Juicy is played by native Detroiter Duane Shabazz. The cast also includes X’ydee Alexander as Opal, Charles Curtis as Tio, Niki Rochelle as Tedra, Erik Hernandez as Larry, Roosevelt Johnson as Pap/Rev, and Janai Lashon as Rabby. 

Host Stephen Henderson talks with Shabazz, who reflects on his journey to an acting career and shares insights into how his background and personal experiences shaped his approach to the role. Detroit Public Theatre Marketing Manager Garlia Jones also joins the discussion, emphasizing the significance of opening the season with this groundbreaking play. They both talk about what it means to them to bring “Fat Ham” to Detroit.