May River Theatre to stage ‘Intimate Apparel’

May River Theatre will present Intimate Apparel, a drama by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage, during a limited run April 17 through April 26.

The production, directed by Camille Jenkins, will be staged at the theater’s venue on Bridge Street. Performances are scheduled over two weekends, with evening shows at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and matinee performances at 2 p.m. on Sundays.

Set in New York City in 1905, the play follows Esther, a skilled seamstress whose work creating custom lingerie attracts a wide range of clients. Despite her professional success, Esther struggles with loneliness and the desire for a deeper personal connection.

The story explores themes of race, class and identity, while examining the ways people seek companionship and understanding. Through Esther’s experiences, the play addresses questions of belonging and self-worth.

“This play invites audiences to search for actualized intimacy in their lives, whether that is through their sensuality, self-discovery, or their art,” Jenkins said. “I want audiences to walk away with the desire to find ways to connect with others and themselves. To know that being intimately familiar with oneself is the key to having intimacy with others.”

The cast includes Naomi LaRonde-King as Esther, Tracey Graves as Mayme and La’Don Williams as George. Additional cast members include Beca Salgado, Noah Pine and Grace Black.

The creative team includes assistant director Scenarious Thurmond, set designer Cindy Palko, costume designer Elizabeth Schlieger, lighting designer David McLaughlin and sound designer Jayme Brinson. Projection design is by Lubomir Kocka, and Noah Pine also serves as composer and music director.

Tickets range from $30 to $35, with discounts available for groups of 20 or more. Tickets can be purchased online through the May River Theatre ticketing site.

May River Theatre is a community-based organization in Bluffton that produces a range of live performances and provides opportunities for local artists to participate in theater productions.