Vertigo Theater Company’s world-premiere production of Street Children by Pia Scala-Zankel officially opens December 2 at the New Ohio Theatre. With direction by Jenna Worsham, the new play delves into the experiences of the transgender and queer community of the lower Hudson piers in New York City during the 1980’s.

The cast is a mix of transgender, queer, and gender fluid actors, made up of Victor Almanzar (Between Riverside And Crazy, Empire), Camilo Almonacid, Craig muMs Grant (Luke Cage, OZ), Yadi Guevara-Prip (Mad Dogs, Basilica), Eve Lindley (Mr. Robot, Outsiders), JP Moraga (Hello, Dolly!; My Fair Lady), Johnny Sibilly (The Deuce, Power), Joslyn De Freece, Mariana Genesio, Paige Gilbert, Nicholas Gorham, Summer P. Minerva, MJ Rodriguez (Rent), Cece Suazo, and Tamara Williams.

Performances began November 30 and are scheduled to run through December 17.

Set in New York during the late 1980’s, Street Children, according to production notes, “explores the repression, romantic idealism, and high cost of living experienced by the transgender and queer community.“ The story follows the intertwining journeys of three young people who are dealing with the aftermath of their beloved street mother’s murder. “Ultimately, they must choose between the thrills and camaraderie of life as they know it, and the safety and stability of a quieter existence—albeit one potentially defined by isolation and ostracism.”

The production team includes Angelica Borrero (scenic design), Bernat Buscato (costume design), Daniel Melnick (sound design), Kate Bashore (lighting design), Addison Heeren (prop design), Caroline Fermin (choreography), David Anzuelo (fight choreography), and Katherine Barton (production stage manager).

The New Ohio Theatre is located at 154 Christopher Street, New York. Tickets can be purchased at VertigoTheater.org or by calling (866) 811-4111.