“Messy White Gays” Brings Dark Comedy and Queer Realness Off-Broadway This Fall

This fall, New York’s theater scene welcomes the highly anticipated premiere of "Messy White Gays", a new play by acclaimed comedian and writer Drew Droege. Scheduled to open on October 6th, 2025, at the Duke on 42nd Street, the production promises to deliver sharp-witted, unapologetically queer humor wrapped in a murder-mystery brunch. With an all-star cast featuring Drew Droege, Tony Award nominee James Cusati-Moyer, Aaron Jackson, Zane Phillips, and Pete Zias, the play is already generating buzz within LGBTQ+ circles for its bold storytelling and irreverent take on community dynamics.

Set in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen, "Messy White Gays" introduces audiences to Brecken and Caden, a couple whose morning takes a macabre turn after they murder their throuple-mate and stash the body in a Jonathan Adler credenza—just as their brunch guests begin to arrive. The play’s premise is as outrageous as it is relatable, channeling the darkly comic anxieties of queer urban life, where relationships are complicated and the stakes—sometimes—are murderously high.

Droege, who also stars as Karl, has described the work as a “blistering” satire, one that pokes fun at the foibles and excesses of a certain segment of the queer community while never losing sight of its heart. The cast is rounded out by James Cusati-Moyer (Brecken), Aaron Jackson (Caden), Zane Phillips (Addison), and Pete Zias (Thacker), each bringing their distinct comedic and dramatic talents to the stage.

Directed by Mike Donahue, "Messy White Gays" leverages a creative team known for their work in both Broadway and queer theater, including set designer Alexander Dodge, costume designers James + AC, lighting by Jen Schriever, sound by Sinan Refik Zadar, and props by Brendan McCann. The addition of puppetry by Sam Hill and special effects by Jeremy Chernick hints at a visually dynamic production.

The play’s run time is 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a brisk, engaging experience for audiences ages 16 and up. It runs through January 11, 2026, with tickets starting at $59. Wheelchair access is available, ensuring the production is as inclusive as its subject matter.

"Messy White Gays" arrives at a moment when honest, self-reflective queer storytelling is more vital than ever. By centering its plot on a throuple—a relationship structure often underrepresented or misunderstood—the play offers a nuanced depiction of polyamory within the LGBTQ+ community. It uses humor to dissect issues of privilege, relationship politics, and the sometimes fraught social dynamics of white gay men living in a city that celebrates diversity but is not immune to its own messiness.

Droege’s previous work has been lauded for its ability to blend camp with genuine social critique, and "Messy White Gays" is poised to continue this tradition. The play’s embrace of “messiness” is both literal—in its murder mystery plot—and metaphorical, inviting audiences to laugh at the absurdity of queer life while reflecting on how communities deal with conflict, accountability, and love.

The ensemble cast features performers who are themselves part of the LGBTQ+ community or long-standing allies, ensuring authentic representation on stage. James Cusati-Moyer, known for his role in "Slave Play", Aaron Jackson from "Dicks: The Musical", and Zane Phillips from "Fire Island" are all celebrated for their contributions to queer culture.

Producers Jamie DuMont, Rob Russo, and the team at The Fabulous Invalid are recognized for creating platforms that spotlight innovative queer voices. Their involvement signals a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what queer theater can be—smart, hilarious, and unafraid to address uncomfortable truths.

Tickets are available via New York Theatre Guide and MessyWhiteGays.com, with performances scheduled Monday through Saturday evenings, plus additional Saturday matinees.

For theater-loving queer audiences, "Messy White Gays" is more than just a play—it’s a celebration of community, complexity, and the cathartic power of laughter. Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or new to queer storytelling, this production promises to entertain, provoke, and resonate in equal measure.