CAN I BE FRANK? Directed by Sam Pinkleton Returns to New York This Summer

Can we be Frank? We’re so excited to see the return of Can I Be Frank? in New York after a sold-out run at La MaMa last year. The play will run from July 24 to Sept. 13, 2025 at SoHo Playhouse. 

In the play, writer and star Morgan Bassichis desperately tries to prove they can think about someone other than themself. To pull it off, they turn to queer comedian, musician, and performance artist Frank Maya, who was one of the first gay comedians on TV before passing away from AIDS-related complications in 1995. The “solo” show attempts to ensure Maya’s legacy is no longer overlooked while finally resolving the bottomless queer search for fame, father figures, and laughter in times of crisis. 

Bassichis is a comedian and writer who has had performances presented by  MoMA PS1, Whitney Museum, New Museum, The Kitchen, REDCAT, Portland Institute for Contemporary Art, and Danspace Project. 

“I feel overjoyed to get to introduce new audiences to the work of one of our queer artistic ancestors, Frank Maya,” Bassichis said in a statement. “And I really hope people take away a strong sense of liking me.”

Hot off his 2025 Tony Award win for Best Direction of a Play for the smash hit Oh, Mary!, Sam Pinkleton will direct Can I Be Frank? Pinkleton has also directed Josh Sharp’s ta-da, Noah Diaz’s You Will Get Sick at Roundabout, and choreographed Stephen Sondheim’s final musical Here We Are at The Shed and Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 on Broadway. 

“I am so excited to spend the summer converting as much of New York City as possible into Morgan Bassichis superfans, as I have been since my very first exposure to their work,” Pinkleton said. “Despite what my therapist says, I do believe Morgan may just be the hero we are all looking for right now.”

Can I Be Frank plays at the SoHo Playhouse from July 24 to September 13, 2025. For tickets and more information, visit here.