A jewel-encrusted crown adorns a skull sitting on a table littered with red Solo cups and barbecued meats.

By James Ijames
Directed by Tyrone Phillips

Ultra-clever…deliciously reinvents a Shakespeare classic.”
–Chicago Sun-Times

January 11 - March 9 in Goodman's Owen Theatre

Around 1 hour and 40 minutes with no intermission.

Fat Ham

EXTENDED AGAIN THROUGH MARCH 9!

A boisterous Southern cookout sets the scene for a Black, queer discovery of self and resilience in this Pulitzer Prize-winning, five-time Tony nominated “uproarious reimagining of Hamlet” (The New Yorker).

“This is what I was raised in: pig guts and bad choices.” As Juicy grapples with his identity and his family at a backyard barbecue, his father’s ghost shows up asking for revenge—on Juicy’s uncle, who has married his widowed mom—bringing his quest for joy and liberation to a screeching halt. James Ijames has reinvented Shakespeare’s masterpiece, creating what the New York Times hails as “a hilarious yet profound tragedy, smothered in comedy,” where the only death is the patriarchy. Tyrone Phillips, Founding Artistic Director of Chicago’s famed Definition Theatre, directs.

A co-production with

Join us at special events for Fat Ham including affinity nights, artist discussions and more!

Recommended for ages 14+

Fat Ham is recommended for ages 14+. It contains discussions of pornography, sex and violence; profanity; and the N-word (spoken by characters of color).

“I would recommend it to anyone.” Audiences like you are loving Fat Ham. On stage through March 2, don’t miss this production that “deliciously reinvents a Shakespeare classic” (Chicago Sun-Times).

“This ensemble is beautiful, and I love them dearly.” The cast of Fat Ham reflects on collaborating to bring the joyful spirit of cookout season to Chicago this winter. On stage through March 2 only!

Our rousing co-production with Definition Theatre is “an excellent must-see” according to audiences like you! Don’t miss your chance to experience this five-time Tony winning play.

Ronald L. Conner looking at Trumane Alston.

(L-R) Ronald L. Conner and Trumane Alston. Photo by Cody Nieset.

Tyrone Phillips wears a light blue Chicago bulls cap and wears a matching sweatshirt.

(L-R) Patrick Fries and Tyrone Phillips. Photo by Cody Nieset.

Anji White (Tedra_ looks at Truman Alston (Juicy) while he looks down.

(L-R) Anji White and Trumane Alston. Photo by Cody Nieset.

Juicy wears a black top and khaki jacket.

Trumane Alston. Photo by Cody Nieset.

Meet the wonderful cast of Fat Ham! Photo by Hugo Hentoff.

Director Tyrone Phillips explains why Fat Ham—our co-production with Definition Theatre—is a “must see.” On stage starting January 11!

Our rousing co-production with Definition Theatre is “an excellent must-see” according to audiences like you! Don’t miss your chance to experience this five-time Tony winning play.