As an actor, every job you do, you make a new family. There is something special about theatre and its ability to bring people together in a way that is unlike any other. I have made so many amazing friends throughout my career, and many of them share my love of books and literature. Since theatre brings stories to life, I thought I would feature some of my favorite performers (my fabulous friends and castmates) and see what their bookshelves look like! Welcome to my Broadway Book Chat!
Chuckie Benson
Currently playing Harpo in The Color Purple at Drury Lane Theatre in Chicago
instagram: @chuckie.benson
What are you currently reading?
The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates
What is your favorite book series?
Twilight Series by Stephanie Meyer lol it got me through some rough times!
Who is your favorite author?
Alice Walker, Sapphire, and Eric Jerome Dickey.
What book inspires you and why?
The Color Purple by Alice Walker. It was one of the first books that I couldn’t put down and read it the first day I got it. So powerful. Granted I was raised on the movie so I had knowledge of it, but the book has so much detail and so much depth that the movie didn’t really touch on. Alice Walker really captures the pain, beauty and triumph of a strong black woman. This story is a true classic. It inspires me to keep going, to keep believing. Holding on to my faith. Knowing love is possible in the midst of chaos.
Which literary character would you like to play?
I’ve played some of my favorites literary characters actually: Coalhouse Walker Jr. in Ragtime, Jim in Huckleberry Finn (Big River), The Ghost of Christmas Present in A Christmas Carol, and Harpo in The Color Purple.
If you could be friends with any of the characters you have played, who would it be and why?
Tom Collins (RENT) He’s so laid back. Charming. Very loveable and fun to be around.
What book would you like to see made into a musical/play/movie?
A Child Called It by Dave Pelzer. Wow, what a powerful movie that would be.
What is the next book on your reading list?
I want to finish the Indebted Series by Pepper Winters.
Have you ever thought about writing yourself?
Yes, I actually do write. I wore a full-length play and screenplay when I was 12.
What show are you currently in and what was the last show you were a part of?
Currently playing Harpo in The Color Purple at Drury Lane Theatre. I recently just got off my first National Tour, Spamilton: An American Parody and I played George Washington and others.
What is your favorite show you’ve been a part of and why?
Each experience is a different experience. I learned a lot from each show that I’ve done thus far. I really loved doing HAIR in Chicago, it was just a beautiful experience with an amazing Tribe that was full of Chicago’s finest. RENT. I’ve done this show professionally twice and each time was so profound and beautiful.
Reading In The Wings 