Varla Jean Merman To Perform New Show At Hartford's TheaterWorks

Jeffrey Robertson, aka drag performer Varla Jean Merman, will bring his solo show "Bad Heroine," for a one-night-only gig at Hartford's TheaterWorks on Sunday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m.

The event will act as a fundraiser for the theater, presented on the set of TheaterWorks's latest show, "The Legend of Georgia McBride," which centers on a straight man who turns to drag when he is in financial dilemma. 

The new show, written by Roberson and playwright Jacques Lamarre ("The Raging Skillet," "I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti") is staged by Michael Schiralli.

"Bad Heroine" is described: "The United States is tripping, so what do we need to keep us from hitting rock bottom? Bad heroine! Drag superstar (and recent parolee) Varla Jean Merman’s new show pays tribute to the inspiring women who have inspired her to think about becoming inspirational. Will Varla Jean be an inspiration…or end up on Intervention? "

The show is recommended for ages 16 and up. Adult content and language is featured in the show. 

Roberson also performed in the Hartford Stage production of "The Mystery of Irma Vep" which also played Long Wharf Theatre in New Haven.  He also starred in the off-Broadway musical "Lucky Guy." and Broadway's "Chicago."  He was also in the films "Girls Will Be Girls" and  "Varla Jean and the Mushroomheads," co-written by Lamarre. TV credits include "Ugly Betty," "Project Runway" and "All My Children."

Jeffrey Roberson without his drag persona.