The Public Theater

This autobiographical solo-show was commissioned by The Public Theater and based on conversations between Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Producer George C. Wolfe and Associate Producer John Dias about Ruben's experiences and memories growing up in Lackawanna, New York.

Would-be philosophers, petty hustlers, lost souls, and abandoned lovers all find refuge, comfort, and nourishment at 32 Wasson Avenue, a boarding house where the landlady, Miss Rachel "Nanny" rules with the embracing spirit of both earth-mother and drill sergeant. When his mother was unable to care for him, Santiago-Hudson joined the ranks of those who were cared for by Nanny. In the play he portrays a host of characters from his time in the boarding house, a colorful collection of misfits and drifters, as well as the sage and selfless Rachel "Nanny" Crosby.

In 2005 the play was adapted into an HBO film with a cast including S. Epatha Merkerson, Jeffrey Wright, Jimmy Smits, Terrence Dashon Howard, Rosie Perez, Marcus Carl Franklin and Macy Gray. The film, directed by George C. Wolfe, was nominated for 7 Emmy Awards winning one for S. Epatha Merkerson's portrayal of Nanny.