Key Takeaways
- Award-winning chef and TV personality Carla Hall is working on a new one-woman show called "Carla Hall — Please Underestimate Me," which premieres on June 3, 2026, at the Olney Theatre in Olney, Maryland.
- The show is not just about cooking, but about Hall’s life story and her journey to becoming a successful chef and TV personality.
- Hall’s advice to those who want to get into the culinary world is to explore different careers in the food industry, such as baking science, testing, and food styling, and to gain experience before deciding on a path.
- Hall emphasizes the importance of hard work and perseverance in the culinary industry, and encourages people to challenge themselves and try new things.
Introduction to Carla Hall
Carla Hall is a renowned chef and TV personality who has made a name for herself in the culinary world. She first gained fame after appearing on the competitive cooking show "Top Chef: New York" in 2008, and later co-hosted the popular lifestyle show "The Chew" on ABC. Hall has also judged various Food Network programs and has her own line of food and kitchenware products. She studied at L’Academie de Cuisine in Bethesda, Maryland, and has a line of tarts being sold at The Fresh Market in Rockville.
The One-Woman Show
Hall’s latest project is a one-woman show called "Carla Hall — Please Underestimate Me," which will premiere on June 3, 2026, at the Olney Theatre in Olney, Maryland. The show is not just about cooking, but about Hall’s life story and her journey to becoming a successful chef and TV personality. Hall has always wanted to be an actress, and this show is her chance to showcase her talents and tell her story. She has been working on the show for over a year, and it has been a labor of love for her. Hall has been building a "runway" for this project, taking acting classes and working with writers to develop the show.
The Journey to the One-Woman Show
Hall’s journey to creating her one-woman show began when she turned 55 and decided that she wanted to lean into theater and do a variety show. She told her agent about her desire to do more voiceovers and cameo roles, and she even hired an acting coach to help her prepare. Hall was inspired by the idea of doing a one-woman show, and she began to build her consciousness and prepare herself for the challenge. When an article about her desire to do a one-woman show was published in the New York Times, the Olney Theatre reached out to her and offered her a chance to be part of their new works program. Hall jumped at the opportunity and began working on her show with her writers, Lori Kaye and Leslie Thomas.
Advice for Aspiring Chefs and Entrepreneurs
Hall’s advice to those who want to get into the culinary world is to explore different careers in the food industry, such as baking science, testing, and food styling. She emphasizes the importance of gaining experience and testing the waters before deciding on a path. Hall also stresses that the culinary industry is not just about making food, but about hard work and perseverance. She encourages people to challenge themselves and try new things, and to not be afraid to take risks. Hall’s own experience of pursuing her passion for theater and acting at the age of 60 is a testament to the fact that it’s never too late to try something new and pursue your dreams.
Conclusion
Carla Hall’s one-woman show, "Carla Hall — Please Underestimate Me," is a testament to her hard work and dedication to her craft. The show is a culmination of her life’s journey and her passion for storytelling and theater. Hall’s advice to aspiring chefs and entrepreneurs is to explore different careers in the food industry, gain experience, and be willing to take risks. Her story is an inspiration to anyone who has ever dreamed of pursuing their passion, and her show is a must-see for anyone who loves food, theater, and inspiring stories of perseverance and determination.
