MTC's Gospel-Infused Play Choir Boy, Starring Chuck Cooper, Begins Previews Off-Broadway

The American premiere of Manhattan Theatre Club's gospel-infused show Choir Boy, directed by Trip Cullman and written by Tarell Alvin McCraney, begins previews on June 18 as part of The Studio at Stage II — Harold and Mimi Steinberg New Play Series. The play officially opens at the off-Broadway theatre at New York City Center on July 2, and will run through July 21.

In Choir Boy, The Charles R. Drew Prep School for Boys is dedicated to the creation of strong, ethical black men. Pharus wants nothing more than to take his rightful place as leader of the school's legendary gospel choir. The cast of the play includes Nicholas L. Ashe, Kyle Beltran, Tony winner Chuck Cooper, Grantham Coleman, Austin Pendleton, Jeremy Pope and Wallace Smith.

The creative team for Choir Boy includes scenic and costume design by David Zinn, lighting by Peter Kaczorowski, sound by Fitz Patton and musical direction by Jason Michael Webb.