Gender Play, or what you Will
co-created by Will Wilhelm and Erin Murray
directed by Emily Tarquin
performed by Will Wilhelm
part of the Bingham Shakespeare Series
June 13-22, 2025
Live in the Victor Jory Theatre

Will is a trans actor seeking purpose and belonging, despite not seeing their story reflected in media or history. In their most desperate hour, they hold a séance to summon one of the oldest and queerest playwrights of the English language — William Shakespeare!  The two are becoming total besties and Will invites you to an impromptu party to celebrate this new friendship. Join Will & Will as they reclaim the Bard’s old plays in all of their original homoerotic, cross-dressing, genderfluid glory. But to meet the guest of honor, we must perform the séance again, together.

Gender Play, or what you Will promises a mystical journey of queer joy, laughter, tarot, and self-discovery through the classics.

“Whether you’re a die-hard Shakespeare nerd, a theater newbie, or someone who dozes off at the mention of iambic pentameter, Gender Play welcomes everyone and delivers an unforgettable night of laughter, magic, and heartfelt connection that reminds us why these plays still matter.” — Jay Hemphill, A Seat on the Aisle

“A glimmering tour de force through some of Shakespeare’s most compelling characters and real-life lovers….An exuberant celebration of the potential of storytelling, filled with decadent costume reveals, surprise dance parties, a robust mastery of Shakespeare’s work, and the talent that is Will Wilhelm.” — Regina Victor, Rescripted

 Closed Captioned Performances: Sunday, June 15 at 2 p.m. and Friday, June 20 at 7 p.m.* 
 ASL Interpretation &  Audio Description: Available by request. Email boxoffice@actorstheatre.org to make arrangements.
Run Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes with one intermission.
Age Recommendation: 14+, accompanied by an adult
Content Warning: Production contains references to gender-based violence and discrimination and strong language including improvised language that may differ between performances. This is a non-exhaustive list, as it can be challenging to recognize how elements will affect individuals. Please email boxoffice@actorstheatre.org if you need more information.

*On the scheduled dates, Closed Captioning is available on your personal mobile device. Any smartphone browser can access the transcription during the performance. The link to access the Closed Captions will be available at the ticket scanning stations as you enter the theatre. For any guest who needs a device on which to access closed captions, the Radical Hospitality Team can assist with providing a tablet.

This production of Gender Play originated at Indianapolis Shakespeare Company.

Gender Play received its world premiere with About Face Theatre in May 2023 (produced by Megan Carney and Logan Jones, dramaturgy by Linnea Valdivia).

Gender Play was developed with additional support from Island Shakespeare Festival, Northwestern University, Wofford College and a GIG Fund Grant from Arts Midwest and the National Endowment for the Arts.