I Don’t Want to Play Myself

Tuesday, June 18th, 2024 @ 7:00 PM

Thursday, June 20th, 2024 @ 7:00 PM

Writer & Performer: Toccara Castleman

Director: Tor Campbell

For Black girls who write solo shows when auditioning is not enough.

The Successful Black Woman (also known as Kim Beverly) has climbed the ranks in Corporate America, appeared on countless panels and authored several books. But all she ever really wanted to be was a world-famous actress. So when she is asked by a local talk show host - who deeply admires her - to make an appearance on her very low budget TV show, The Successful Black Woman surprisingly agrees. But instead of giving platitudes and inspiration to the host and her audience, The Successful Black Woman takes center stage to relive the memories of her youth, when she first dared to dream.

Written and performed by Toccara Castleman, “I Don't Want to Play Myself" presents six original characters - seven if you count code switching - to explore the journey of an impressionable young woman who tried again and again...and again to make her artistic hopes come true.

This energetic solo show uses music, movement and humor to dive into the misadventures of getting lost as we search for success, and the unexpected courage we find along the way.

CONTENT WARNING(S): Some use of profanity.

*Please note that this performance will be presented at the Tank's in-person performance space at 312 W 36th St. All attendees and artists will be required to have a covid vaccination before being admitted to the space. Patrons will also be required to wear masks, when not eating or drinking.