Laverne Cox Shares What It Was Like Performing in “The Drowsy Chaperone” with an All-Trans and Non-Binary Cast (Exclusive)

Laverne Cox, the acclaimed actress and advocate, recently opened up about her transformative experience starring in the musical comedy *The Drowsy Chaperone* alongside an all-trans and non-binary cast. This unique production, which took place for one night only at the iconic Carnegie Hall in New York City, marked a significant milestone in both Cox’s career and the broader landscape of theater representation. In an exclusive interview, Cox reflected on the magic of the performance, the importance of inclusive casting, and the personal impact of this groundbreaking show.

Performing in “The Drowsy Chaperone” with an All-Trans and Non-Binary Cast

The 53-year-old actress, known widely for her role in *Orange Is the New Black*, described her time in *The Drowsy Chaperone* as “a dream come true.” The musical comedy, which playfully spoofs the extravagant and carefree style of 1920s American musicals, was brought to life by Breaking the Binary Theatre, a company dedicated to showcasing trans and non-binary talent. Cox took on the title role, delivering a performance that was both powerful and deeply personal.

Speaking at the 2025 WWD Honors in New York City, Cox shared how performing at Carnegie Hall — a venue she had admired since childhood — was a surreal and magical experience. “Carnegie Hall has been a part of my life since I was a kid in terms of just dreaming of Carnegie Hall, going to Carnegie Hall, different concerts and recitals,” she said. “So getting to perform there was a dream come true. It was magical and the cast was magical, and the experience, the character, it was the perfect way to make my Carnegie Hall debut.”

This production was not only a milestone for Cox but also a significant moment for trans and non-binary representation in mainstream theater. Cox emphasized the need for more visibility and inclusion in the arts, stating, “We could use more representation in theater everywhere.” The all-trans and non-binary cast challenged traditional casting norms and showcased the immense talent within these communities, paving the way for future productions to embrace diversity more fully.

The Personal and Cultural Impact of the Show

For Cox, the experience of performing in *The Drowsy Chaperone* was more than just a professional achievement; it was a deeply emotional journey. She revealed that she is still processing the significance of the show and what it meant for her identity as an artist and a member of the LGBTQ+ community. The production’s playful homage to a bygone era of musicals contrasted with its progressive casting, creating a powerful statement about inclusion and the evolving nature of theater.

Beyond the stage, Cox’s advocacy for trans and non-binary visibility continues to resonate through her other projects. Most recently, she starred in the Prime Video comedy series *Clean Slate*, which explores themes of identity and family through the story of a trans woman returning home. Cox has spoken candidly about how her own life experiences influenced the show, turning personal challenges into art that fosters empathy and understanding.

Reflecting on her journey, Cox shared, “If you do have lived experiences that are challenging, you can give it to your art. And then, maybe the people who are watching it, who may be experiencing the same thing, will understand they’re not alone. That cultivates empathy. And that is the gift of being an artist and going through horrible, awful stuff, is that maybe I can use this in my work, and show someone else that they’re not alone.”

Why Representation in Theater Matters

Laverne Cox’s role in *The Drowsy Chaperone* highlights a crucial conversation about representation in the arts. Theater has long been a space for storytelling and cultural reflection, yet trans and non-binary performers have historically been marginalized or excluded from mainstream productions. By centering an all-trans and non-binary cast, this production challenged the status quo and demonstrated the richness that diversity brings to the stage.

Representation matters not only for the performers but also for audiences who see themselves reflected in the stories being told. Inclusive casting fosters a sense of belonging and validation for marginalized communities, while also educating and broadening the perspectives of wider audiences. Cox’s involvement in this production serves as a beacon for aspiring actors and creators, showing that barriers can be broken and new narratives can flourish.

Moreover, productions like *The Drowsy Chaperone* encourage the industry to rethink traditional norms and embrace innovation. They open doors for more authentic storytelling and create opportunities for voices that have been historically silenced. As Cox pointed out, the need for more representation in theater is urgent and ongoing, and every step forward contributes to a more equitable and vibrant cultural landscape.

The Future of Inclusive Theater

The success and impact of *The Drowsy Chaperone* with its all-trans and non-binary cast signal a promising future for inclusive theater. Breaking the Binary Theatre’s commitment to showcasing diverse talent sets a precedent that other companies can follow. As audiences increasingly demand authentic and varied stories, the theater world is poised to become more reflective of the society it serves.

Laverne Cox’s participation in this production not only elevates the visibility of trans and non-binary performers but also inspires industry leaders to prioritize inclusivity. With more productions embracing diverse casting and storytelling, the arts can become a powerful platform for social change and cultural enrichment.

Conclusion

Laverne Cox’s experience performing in *The Drowsy Chaperone* with an all-trans and non-binary cast was a landmark moment in her career and a significant step forward for representation in theater. This groundbreaking production at Carnegie Hall showcased the extraordinary talent within the trans and non-binary community and underscored the importance of inclusive storytelling. Cox’s reflections remind us that representation in the arts is not just about visibility but about fostering empathy, understanding, and connection.

If you’re passionate about supporting diverse voices in theater and celebrating groundbreaking performances like Cox’s, stay engaged with inclusive productions and advocate for representation on and off the stage. Together, we can help create a more vibrant, equitable future for the arts.

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