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

Laverne Cox Reflects on Starring in an All-Trans and Non-Binary Cast of ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’

Laverne Cox recently shared her profound experience of being part of an all-trans and non-binary production of ‘The Drowsy Chaperone.’ The celebrated actress described her involvement in the musical comedy, which graced the stage at Carnegie Hall, as nothing short of a “dream come true.” Cox spoke with PEOPLE during the red carpet event at the 2025 WWD Honors in New York City on October 28.

During the event, Cox, aged 53, enthused about playing the title role in the production and working with Breaking the Binary Theatre, highlighting the exceptional talent of the all-trans and non-binary cast. She mentioned how significant the show, a parody of the opulent, carefree musicals of 1920s America, was to her.

The Broadway performance ran for a single night on October 20, bringing together a cast that resonated with Cox on a personal level. Cox expressed her joy, stating, “Carnegie Hall has been a part of my life since I was a kid…getting to perform there was a dream come true.” She further elaborated on the magical experience and the camaraderie within the cast, making her Carnegie Hall debut unforgettable.

Emphasising the importance of trans and non-binary representation in mainstream theatre, Cox underscored the necessity for increased diversity across theatrical productions. She articulated the need for broader representation and inclusivity, echoing a sentiment shared by many in the entertainment industry.

In addition to her recent theatrical endeavour, Cox had a prominent role in the Prime Video comedy series ‘Clean Slate.’ The show centres around an outspoken car wash owner in Alabama, with Cox playing the character of a proud trans woman named Desiree. Her portrayal drew from personal experiences, reflecting on challenging yet formative moments from her past.

Cox’s journey in the acting realm has not been without hurdles, as she disclosed that filming ‘Clean Slate’ evoked deeply emotional responses due to its stark parallels to her own life. She highlighted the significance of drawing from personal struggles to create impactful art that resonates with audiences, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding.

The actress concluded by affirming that leveraging personal hardships to enrich one’s craft can create a powerful connection with viewers, reassuring them that they are not alone in their struggles. This empathetic approach to storytelling underscores Cox’s commitment to using her platform to shed light on shared experiences and foster a greater sense of community.

Overall, Laverne Cox’s reflections on her involvement in ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ and ‘Clean Slate’ showcase her dedication to advocating for diverse representation in the entertainment industry, while also emphasising the transformative power of art in conveying shared human experiences. As she continues to break barriers and inspire audiences, Cox exemplifies the enduring impact of authentic storytelling and representation on-screen and on-stage.