As society’s understanding of gender continues to evolve, so do its critiques of men-in-dresses tropes. Some Like It Hot arrives on Broadway following two musical adaptations featuring men dressing up in women’s clothing. J. Harrison Ghee has been an essential part of expanding the role of Jerry, Daphne, and the idea of gender for this production. Ghee, who uses he/they pronouns, told The New York Times, “After reading the draft of the script, I saw an opportunity for me to be pushed as an entertainer by playing Jerry and the opportunity to bring my own nonbinary identity onstage.” Ghee is no stranger to barrier-breaking performances, having played Lola in Kinky Boots on Broadway and Velma Kelly in Chicago at St. Louis’s The Muny. López and Ruffin prioritized conversations with Ghee to bring authenticity and nuance in exploring gender with Jerry and Daphne. “We got to talk to J. about exactly who J. is and exactly how J. feels, and that made me realize J. and this character are in the same boat,” says Ruffin. “So if we stay true to J., then we will not have told a lie.” López adds, “J. has been involved with the show for a long time, and when an actor is that magnetic and unique, it affects the way you write the role. You write for J. We chased after their ideas, their instincts, their spirit, their soul.”
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