In Intimate Apparel, a much sought-after African-American seamstress — who sews elegant intimates for socialites and harlots alike — looks for love and respect in turn-of-the-20th-century Manhattan. The work was inspired by Nottage's grandmother, who made lingerie in the same time period. The drama won the 2004 New York Drama Critics' Circle Award for Best Play, Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Play and John Gassner Award for Best Play, the American Theatre Critics Association's Francesca Primus Award Best Play and Steinberg New Play Award. Nottage also recently won the PEN/Laura Pels Foundation Award for Drama honoring her career of work.
Jessica Thebus directs a cast featuring Velma Austin, Cheryl Lynn Bruce, Eli Goodman, JoNell Kennedy, Kymberly Mellen and Morocco Omari.
The run in the Downstairs Theatre will last until March 13.