Chrysalis Theatre Company’s ‘She Takes Flight’ Premieres Off-Broadway, Spotlighting Women’s Stories

Chrysalis Theatre Company is set to debut “She Takes Flight,” a bold new Off-Broadway play exploring the complexities of middle age through the personal stories of five women.

The world premiere opens Saturday, May 17 at 7 p.m. at the Chain Theatre in Manhattan, with previews beginning May 15. The production runs through June 8.

Directed by Kelly ODonnell and performed by Sora Baek, Cindy Keiter, Gabriela Kohen, Adina Taubman, and Susan Ward, “She Takes Flight” offers a candid and often humorous look at aging, identity, motherhood, grief, and resilience. The ensemble cast, all women in their late 40s to late 60s, use a mix of monologues and ensemble scenes to present experiences that are often underrepresented on stage.

“Were a group of women in our late 40s to late 60s who have come together to create something healing, hilarious, and fiercely human,” says Adina Taubman, artistic director of Chrysalis Theatre Company. “The play builds sisterhood from our shared truths — heartbreak, absurdity, and all.”

Presented as part of the Factory Series at Chain Theatre, the production reflects themes such as body image, caregiving, menopause, and generational trauma. According to the company, the performance “offers a rare, full-bodied narrative arc to women often overlooked in mainstream media — reminding us all of the urgency and beauty of telling your story before its too late.”

“She Takes Flight” is described by its creators as a celebration of survival and connection, using a mixture of humor and introspection to portray lifes transitions. Scenes range from childhood memories and song to confronting political and personal challenges, including reproductive rights and shifting family roles.

The play also highlights its performers extensive backgrounds in theater and storytelling. Gabriela Kohen brings experience from both the stage and her career in psychoanalysis. Sora Baeks acclaimed solo show “SELL ME: I Am from North Korea” appeared at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Cindy Keiter, Susan Ward, and Adina Taubman also contribute long histories in theater, solo performance, and teaching.

Tickets for the 90-minute performance are $25 and available at chrysalistheatrecompany.com or at the door at The Chain Theatre.