Cygnet Theatre Presents The Hot Wing King by Katori Hall, April 9 – May 2, 2025

Cygnet Theatre Presents The Hot Wing King by Pulitzer Prize Winner Katori Hall

A Fierce and Funny Celebration of Family, Love, and Self-Expression Runs April 9 – May 2, 2025

Cygnet Theatre is thrilled to announce its upcoming production of The Hot Wing King by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Katori Hall. Directed by Kian Kline-Chilton, this hilarious and heartwarming comedy will run from April 9 to May 2, 2025, at Cygnet’s Old Town Theatre, with a press opening on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 7:00 PM.

Set against the backdrop of Memphis’s annual “Hot Wang Festival,” the story follows Cordell Crutchfield and his partner Dwayne as they prepare to claim the festival crown with the help of their friends—aka “The New Wing Order.” But when a family tragedy brings Dwayne’s nephew into the mix, the competition—and their lives—are turned upside down in a whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and heart.

Director’s Vision: Showcasing Love, Laughter, and Resilience

Director Kian Kline-Chilton brings a personal passion to the project:

“I want to unapologetically showcase every facet of what makes us beautiful—our laughter, our hair, our fashion, our love—in our most human, unapologetic form.”

Meet the Cast and Creative Team

The powerhouse cast includes:

  • Rondrell McCormick as Cordell (Mud Row)
  • Xavier Daniels as Big Charles
  • Tristan J Shuler as Dwayne
  • Kevane La’Marr Coleman as Isom (Angels in America)
  • Jocorey Mitchell as Everett (EJ)
  • Carter Piggee as TJ

Creative Team:

  • Scenic Design: Audrey R. Casteris
  • Sound Design: Padra Crisafulli
  • Lighting Design: Caroline Andrew
  • Props Design: Teresa Jove
  • Costume Design: Danita Lee
  • Stage Management: Chandra R.M. Anthenil

Ticket Information and Show Schedule

Tickets for The Hot Wing King are on sale now:

  • Prices start at $34, with discounts for preview performances, students, and military members.
  • Showtimes:
    • Wednesday – Saturday at 7:00 PM
    • Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2:00 PM

Purchase tickets:

  • Online at www.cygnettheatre.org
  • By phone at (619) 337-1525
  • In person at Cygnet Theatre, 4040 Twiggs Street, San Diego, CA 92110

About Cygnet Theatre

Cygnet Theatre Company produces a year-round season of Off-Broadway-style productions and engaging educational programming. Starting September 2025, Cygnet will move its mainstage productions to its brand-new home at The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center at Liberty Station.

Learn more about Cygnet Theatre’s vibrant programs and upcoming productions at cygnettheatre.org.

When and where is The Hot Wing King being performed?

The Hot Wing King runs from April 9 to May 2, 2025, at Cygnet Theatre’s Old Town Theatre in San Diego.

Who is directing The Hot Wing King at Cygnet Theatre?

The production is directed by Kian Kline-Chilton, bringing a personal passion for showcasing love, laughter, and resilience.

How can I purchase tickets for The Hot Wing King?

Tickets are available online at cygnettheatre.org, by phone at (619) 337-1525, or in person at 4040 Twiggs Street, San Diego, CA 92110.

What is The Hot Wing King about?

Set during Memphis’s ‘Hot Wang Festival,’ the comedy follows Cordell, Dwayne, and their friends as they pursue victory while navigating unexpected family challenges.

What are the showtimes for The Hot Wing King?

Performances are Wednesday through Saturday at 7:00 PM, with matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 PM.