Fresno State’s University Theatre will present the second production of its 2024/25 Mainstage Season, “Chicken & Biscuits,” written by Douglas Lyons and directed by Thomas-Whit Ellis. This is a Fresno premiere.
Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1-2 and 5-9 and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3 at the Dennis and Cheryl Woods Theatre. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for Fresno State faculty, staff, alumni and military and $10 for all students. Children under five are not permitted.
Can rivaling sisters Baneatta and Beverly bury their father without killing each other? This proves difficult when Beverly shows up at the chapel with her “blessings” on display. Meanwhile, Baneatta’s son brings his neurotic Jewish boyfriend along, knowing Baneatta disapproves, and Beverly’s nosy daughter keeps asking questions no one wants to answer. Baneatta’s pastor husband tries to mediate the family drama, but when a shocking family secret reveals itself at the pulpit, the two sisters are faced with a truth that could either heal or break them.
“‘Chicken & Biscuits’ is a celebration of family, love and the beautiful chaos that comes with it,” says director Thomas-Whit Ellis. “Douglas Lyons masterfully blends humor and heart, offering a glimpse into the dynamics that shape our identities and relationships. In my production, I aim to create an atmosphere where laughter and vulnerability coexist, inviting the audience to experience both the joy and the complexities of coming together, especially in times of loss. This play reminds us that no matter our differences, it’s our connections that truly nourish us.”
Critics have raved about “Chicken & Biscuits” by Douglas Lyons, describing it as a “hilarious and heartfelt” exploration of family dynamics. The ‘New York Times’ praises it as “a joyous celebration of love and laughter,” while ‘Variety’ notes, “This is the kind of comedy that lingers long after the curtain falls.” Lyons masterfully weaves humor and poignant moments, capturing the complexities of Black family life during a funeral. The play not only entertains but also invites audiences to reflect on the bonds that hold us together. A must-see for anyone seeking a blend of comedy and emotional depth in their theatre experience.
The production features performances from Danay Ferguson, Teresa Gipson, LaTonia Hayes, Justice P., Terell Morris, Ananda Shaffer, Mitchell Shaw, and LeVetta Wheeler.
Fresno State no longer requires masks to be worn indoors. Still, based on updated guidance from public health experts, the University highly recommends that all students, faculty, and staff, regardless of vaccination status, wear a surgical grade or KN95 mask indoors. Doors open 30 minutes before curtain. Latecomers will not be permitted, and there are no refunds or exchanges. The box office is open from noon to 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday – Thursday and one hour before each performance, and it accepts cash, check, or credit card payments.
Parking is free for shows on Friday through Sunday night. For shows on Tuesday through Thursday night, parking permits are required and can be purchased at dispensers in parking lots on campus.
For more information, contact the box office at 559.278.2216 or universitytheatre@csufresno.edu.
The College of Arts and Humanities at Fresno State 
this show will be a laugh a minute! I am excited to see the reactions of the audience.
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