Partnership with Dillard University is first in 13 years
NEW ORLEANS – Next up on the itinerant theatre company’s Season 21 slate is the regional premiere of the iambic adaptation that’s sweeping the nation.
In partnership with Dillard University, The NOLA Project will present FAT HAM – a modern spin on Shakespeare – by James Ijames. In this Pulitzer Prize-winning comic reinvention of HAMLET, what starts as a boisterous barbecue quickly turns into a haunting examination of love, loss, pain and joy.
“FAT HAM is as bold and as necessary as CATCH THE WALL was for us over a decade ago,” said The NOLA Project Artistic Director Tenaj Wallace. “A story we have to tell and share alongside Dillard.”
CATCH THE WALL, the last NOLA Project piece presented at Dillard University in 2013 – an original work by ensemble member Gab Reisman – coincidentally starred Wallace. Now, on the other side of the stage, Wallace (SCHOOL GIRLS; OR, THE AFRICAN MEAN GIRLS PLAY, PASS OVER) directs fellow NOLA Project ensemble member Wayland Cooper as well as local performers Rayshaughn Armant, Justin Davis, Delphine Joseph, Jordan Melancon, Colby Muse, Riga Ruby and Condoleezza Semien.
“When we began conversations with Dillard University’s Theatre Department, I asked if they wanted guaranteed spots for their students – a standard agreement,” said Wallace. “They immediately said no. Our students earn their spots, and they absolutely proved that in the audition room. I’m excited for audiences to see the caliber of artists Dillard is producing and how confidently they hold their own alongside our veteran performers.”
FAT HAM will be presented January 15-February 6 at Dillard’s Cook Theater. All performances start at 7:30 pm. For detailed schedule, tickets and more, visit NOLAProject.com.
WHAT:
The NOLA Project and Dillard University present the regional premiere of James Ijames’ FAT
HAM
WHEN:
WHEN:
January 15 – Febuary 6, 2026
7:30 p.m.
WHERE:
Dillard University’s Cook Performance Art Center
5 East Road (Enter at 2601 Genitilly Blvd
TICKETS:
$20-$55
https://www.nolaproject.com/fatham
About The NOLA Project
For over 20 years, The NOLA Project and its intrepid ensemble of artists have brought bold, innovative, and imaginative theatre to the people of New Orleans. Twice awarded with the National Theatre company Award from the American Theatre Wing, The NOLA Project has carved out a special niche in the Gulf South with immersive and thought-provoking original plays. The NOLA Project is an ensemble theatre company that challenges, entertains, and engages diverse New Orleans audiences through adventurous productions of classic works, the development of innovative new plays, and practical education opportunities. To learn more, visit NOLAProject.com.
