By The critically acclaimed production of Katori Hall’s “The Hot Wing King” is entering its final week at Cygnet Theatre, with performances concluding on May 2, 2025. This marks San Diego’s last opportunity to witness this delicious blend of humor, heart, and spice that has been heating up the Old Town Theatre since April 9.
A Recipe for Success
Set against Memphis’s annual “Hot Wang Festival,” the production follows Cordell Crutchfield and his partner Dwayne as they battle for the festival crown with their culinary team, “The New Wing Order.” Director Kian Kline-Chilton has crafted a production that celebrates Black queer joy and family bonds with both sensitivity and exuberance.
San Diego audiences have embraced this show with incredible enthusiasm, the combination of Katori Hall’s brilliant writing, Kian’s vision, and the remarkable cast have created something truly special that resonates with everyone who sees it.
Critical and Audience Acclaim
Local critics have praised the production for its authentic portrayal of chosen family and the powerhouse performances from its ensemble cast. Rondrell McCormick’s portrayal of Cordell has been particularly celebrated for its nuanced blend of competitive drive and tender vulnerability.
” Actors were all amazing but was really struck by Jocorey Mitchell—he has a bright future” shared attendee Casey Walters in a comment on Cygnet Theatre’s Facebook page following a recent performance. “Great representation of how to define a family. Funny, poignant, heartwarming, heartbreaking and honest.”
More Than Just a Comedy
While “The Hot Wing King” delivers plenty of laughs, it also tackles deeper themes of acceptance, resilience, and creating family on one’s own terms. The show’s exploration of Black masculinity and LGBTQ+ relationships has sparked meaningful conversations among audience members.
“It also offers a funny and thoughtful insight to a community — Black gay Southern men — that has only recently been explored in more depth by non-LGBTQ theaters.,” notes Pam Kragen in their review in the San Diego Union-Tribune published April 15.
Last Chance to Catch the Flavor
With just a handful of performances remaining before closing night on May 2, tickets are selling quickly. The final week’s schedule includes:
- Wednesday, April 30 at 7:00 PM
- Thursday, May 1 at 7:00 PM
- Friday, May 2 at 7:00 PM (Closing Night)
A special post-show discussion with cast members will follow the Wednesday evening performance, offering audiences insight into the production process and the themes of the play.
Looking Ahead: Cygnet’s New Chapter
“The Hot Wing King” represents one of the final productions at Cygnet’s current Old Town Theatre location before the company moves to its new home at The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center at Liberty Station in September 2025.
How to Get Tickets
Remaining tickets start at $34 and can be purchased:
- Online at www.cygnettheatre.org
- By phone at (619) 337-1525
- In person at the Cygnet Theatre box office (4040 Twiggs Street, San Diego, CA 92110)
Discounts are available for students, military members, and groups of 10 or more.
Don’t miss your final opportunity to experience this heartwarming celebration of family, love, and perfectly seasoned hot wings before it flies away from San Diego stages.
Is “The Hot Wing King” appropriate for all ages?
The production contains adult language and mature themes. It is recommended for audiences 16 and older.
How long is the performance?
The show runs approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including one 15-minute intermission.
Are there any special events during the final week?
Yes, there will be a post-show discussion with cast members following the Wednesday, April 30 performance.
What is “The Hot Wing King” about?
Written by Pulitzer Prize winner Katori Hall, the play follows Cordell and his partner Dwayne as they prepare for Memphis’s annual “Hot Wang Festival” cooking competition with their friends, while navigating unexpected challenges.
Who stars in the production?
The cast features Rondrell McCormick as Cordell, Tristan J Shuler as Dwayne, Xavier Daniels as Big Charles, Kevane La’Marr Coleman as Isom, Jocorey Mitchell as Everett (EJ), and Carter Piggee as TJ.
Is this the last production at Cygnet’s current location?
While not the final show, “The Hot Wing King” is among the last productions at Cygnet’s Old Town Theatre before moving to The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center at Liberty Station in September 2025.
Are tickets still available?
Yes, but they’re selling quickly for the final performances. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance.
Is there parking available near the theatre?
Limited free parking is available adjacent to the theatre, with additional paid parking nearby.
Can I purchase tickets at the door?
If the performance isn’t sold out, tickets can be purchased at the box office starting one hour before showtime. Advance purchase is strongly recommended for the final week.