Bootycandy

By Rober O’Hara
June 19, 20 and 25,26, 27 2026

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Cast announcement!

Tamiah Coffee as Actor 1

Nathan Johnson as Actor 2

Candice Massie as Actor 3

JoAnna Marks as Actor 4

Abel Blake as Actor 5

Sutter is on an outrageous odyssey through his childhood home, his church, dive bars, motel rooms, and even nursing homes. Playwright Robert O'Hara weaves together scenes, sermons, sketches, and daring meta-theatrics to create a kaleidoscopic portrayal of growing up gay and Black. Uproarious satire crashes headlong into the murky terrain of pain and pleasure and… Bootycandy.

Bootycandy Performance

DIRECTOR ANNOUNCEMENT: McKenna Moten

McKenna Moten

Shades of Theatre Company is thrilled to introduce McKenna Moten as the director of our upcoming production of “Bootycandy” by Robert O’Hara!

McKenna brings a dynamic artistic vision and a deep commitment to storytelling that challenges, inspires, and sparks conversation. We are excited to have her lead this bold and thought-provoking production.

About McKenna Moten:

McKenna studied Theatre at Kansas State University, with an emphasis in Directing, Performing, and Intimacy and Consent Training. They made their directing debut with “The Grown-Ups” by Skylar Fox and Simon Henriques at K-State in 2025. McKenna also directed Helen Hocker Theatre’s 2025–2026 season opener, “Chicken and Biscuits” by Douglas Lyons.

Join us in welcoming MaKenna as she brings Robert O’Hara’s daring, hilarious, and poignant exploration of identity to life on stage.

Performance Details for Bootycandy

June 19–20 & 25–29, Great Overland Station | Topeka, KS

Auditions on April 25th, 1pm-3pm with callbacks immediately after.

Echo Ridge, 2021 SE Market, Topeka, KS

Scripts available by emailing request to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

2026 Show Season!

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Season 2026

Where powerful new stories take center stage

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Our Mission

To ignite a transformative theatrical experience that celebrates diverse cultures, empowers the voices of underserved communities, and fosters deeper understanding, empathy, and appreciation of the human experience.

Our Vision

Shades of Theatre Company envisions a world where theatre is a powerful force for cultural understanding and social change.

We see a future where diverse voices are celebrated on stage and off, and where theatre serves as a platform for empathy, education, and empowerment for all communities.