Set in early 1990s Chicago during the AIDS epidemic, MS. BLAKK FOR PRESIDENT follows Joan Jett Blakk, the first Black drag queen to run for President of the United States. Alongside members of Queer Nation Chicago, Joan launches a campaign that blends activism, performance, and political confrontation, bringing queer issues directly into the national spotlight during a period of escalating public health and cultural crisis. The play is inspired by the life and activism of drag performer Terence Alan Smith.

The work is written by Tarell Alvin McCraney (The Brothers Size, Academy Award-winning co-writer of Moonlight) and Tina Landau (Redwood, Floyd Collins), with Landau also directing the production.