The Bent Theater Brings ‘The Inheritance Part 2’ to Palm Springs

A powerful new production has opened at The Bent Theater in Palm Springs. The Inheritance Part 2 continues the story that began with last year’s award-winning Part 1, offering audiences another deeply emotional and thought-provoking theatrical experience.

The play, often compared to Angels in America, explores the lives and relationships of gay men across generations. While it builds on the themes of Part 1, the cast says the story also stands strong on its own. “We’ve had people come who never saw the first half and they loved it,” said actor Terry Ray, who also teaches acting at The Bent.

Ray stars alongside Willie Mullins, who returns for the second installment. Both perform multiple roles in the large ensemble cast of 11. “It’s like watching the second season of a show you really like,” said Mullins.

The Bent Theater, now entering its fourth season, has quickly become the Coachella Valley’s premier LGBTQ+ theater company — and one of only four such companies in all of Southern California. The group recently celebrated major success at the Desert Theatre League Awards, taking home five honors for The Inheritance Part 1, including Best Play and acting awards for Ray and others.

“This play is about telling our story,” Ray said. “It’s multi-generational, it’s powerful, it’s funny, it’s sexy — it’s everything. And the response from the community has been incredible.”

The Inheritance Part 2 runs through November 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Tickets are available at thebent.org.

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