Naomi Lorrain (Orange is the New Black) will star as as Philomena in the world premiere of Charly Evon Simpson's Behind the Sheet at Ensemble Studio Theatre this winter. The new play by the Jump playwright is inspired by the story of Dr. J. Marion Sims, the controversial "father of modern gynecology"—a champion for women's health while repeatedly performing experimental surgery on his female slaves.

Behind the Sheet will be directed by Colette Robert (Mary’s Wedding).

The cast is completed by Stephen James Anthony (War Horse) as Edward/Samuel, Nia Calloway (All One Forest) as Betty, Cristina Pitter (BALLS) as Sally, Shawn Randall (Travisville) as Benjamin/Lewis, Joel Ripka (American Jornalero) as George, Megan Tusing (Mope) as Josephine, Amber Reauchean Williams (No King In Israel) as Mary, and Jehan O. Young (Think Before You Holla) as Dinah.

Performances will begin January 9, 2019, ahead of a January 17 opening, and will continue through February 3.

Behind the Sheet is part of the EST/Sloan Science & Technology Project, EST's ongoing partnership with the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation to commission, develop, and produce new works that explore the worlds of science, technology, and economics.

For more information visit EnsembleStudiotheatre.org.