Jason Mannino of Stage and Cinema writes, “Dezart Performs solidifies its reputation as one of the premier theater companies in The Valley—and possibly all of Southern California—with its current production of Fat Ham, running through January 26. Given the lack of diversity on Coachella Valley stages, it’s invigorating to see a play featuring a full cast of Black actors.
“James Ijames’s bold reimagining of Hamlet transforms Shakespeare’s tragedy into a darkly comedic exploration of queerness, family, and generational trauma. Set at a Southern backyard barbecue, this contemporary adaptation breathes new life into timeless themes of revenge and identity. With Artistic Director Michael Shaw at the helm, the production leans into the absurdity of the premise while ensuring the emotional core remains deeply resonant. This is a vivid testament to the power of reinterpreting classics through contemporary lenses.”