Carla Hall in Please Underestimate Me

Carla Hall, the award-winning chef, bestselling author, and beloved television personality, makes her theatrical debut in *Please Underestimate Me*, a solo show that chronicles her unlikely path from an awkward theater camp kid in Tennessee to a star on *Top Chef*, *The Chew*, and beyond. A co-writer of the piece alongside Lori Kaye and Leslie Thomas, Hall invites audiences to “strap in” for a wild, hilarious, and emotional ride as she reveals how she learned to embrace her authenticity, “work her quirk,” and step into her power. The show touches on her roots at Howard University, a stint on the runways of Paris, the pressures of Black excellence, crushing sexism, and the many attempts to erase her uniqueness—all leading to the creation of her truest self. Directed by Lili-Anne Brown, this world premiere production is presented at The Clarice at UMD and has been extended for two weeks.

When: June 3 through July 26, 2026. (The show has been extended and must close July 26.)

Ticket prices: $52 – $121 (including fees).

Age Guidance: If this were a film, it would be rated PG-13 for language and mature themes.

Location: The Clarice at UMD (the performance takes place in the Mulitz-Gudelsky Theatre Lab). Late seating is at the discretion of the House Manager due to the theatre’s layout. Those exiting during the performance will not be re-admitted while it is in progress.

Lineup: Carla Hall stars as herself. Creative team includes Carla Hall, Lori Kaye, and Leslie Thomas (co-writers) and Lili-Anne Brown (director).

Note: No run time or specific showtimes were provided in the available material. The show is a one-woman performance and is part of the 2025–26 season at The Clarice at UMD.