The limited engagement, running Aug. 6-Sept. 27, is presented by American Legacy Magazine and produced by 3-G Entertainment. Actress Reynolds also wrote the McDaniel tribute; Reginald D. Brown directs. Hattie. . .What I Need to Know, according to press notes, "takes the audience on a dramatic musical journey about Hattie's life from her early childhood and her relationship with her family to her difficult decision to leave her family and move to Los Angeles to pursue her artistic dreams during a time filled with racism and segregation. Through this journey, we get to see the intimate personal side of Hattie's life as a wife, businesswoman, a struggling African American actress and her rise to become an African American Hollywood star."

McDaniel was the first African-American actor to win an Academy Award — for her performance in "Gone With the Wind."

In a statement actress-writer Reynolds said, "I feel like this is one of my destinies to portray Hattie McDaniel. We have so many parallels. My brother was a Tony Award winner who pulled me into show business. We sing, dance and act as well as write. We even favor in appearance."

The production will also feature musical direction by Michael A. Williams and costume design by Paula Kaatz.

Vickilyn Reynolds has starred in productions of Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk, The Colored Museum and Mama I Want to Sing.

Show times are Wednesdays-Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 4 PM.

Tickets, priced $25-$40, are available by calling (212) 722-3800 or by visiting www.HattieWhatINeedYouToKnow.com. The National Black Theater, Inc. is located at 2031-33 National Black Theatre Way/Fifth Avenue.