Carla Hall: Cooking Up a New Chapter in Her Career
Award-winning chef and television personality Carla Hall has long been a beloved figure in the culinary world, known for her vibrant personality and innovative cooking style. With a career that began on the competitive cooking show "Top Chef: New York" in 2008, Hall quickly captured the hearts of viewers and went on to co-host ABC’s lifestyle show "The Chew" for seven successful seasons. Today, she continues to judge various Food Network programs, but she’s also embarking on an exciting new venture: a one-woman show titled “Carla Hall — Please Underestimate Me.”
A New Stage in Life
In a recent interview with WTOP, Hall shared her enthusiasm for her upcoming performance at the Olney Theatre in Maryland, set to premiere on June 3, 2026. This show marks a significant shift in her career, as it moves away from the kitchen and into the realm of theater. “It’s just me on stage,” Hall explained, emphasizing that while there will be culinary elements, the show is primarily a reflection of her life journey.
Hall’s passion for acting has been a long-standing dream. “I wanted to be an actress when I grew up,” she confessed, revealing her aspiration to be the Black Carol Burnett. As she approached her 60th birthday, Hall felt a renewed desire to explore her theatrical ambitions. “I really want to lean into theater,” she said, highlighting her commitment to pursuing new creative avenues.
The Journey to the One-Woman Show
The idea for her one-woman show began to take shape after Hall expressed her desire to perform in an article for The New York Times. This led to an opportunity with the Olney Theatre, which invited her to participate in a workshop for new works. “We did that in September of last year,” Hall recalled, detailing the collaborative process with her writers, Lori Kaye and Leslie Thomas. The experience was transformative, culminating in a performance that solidified her place in the theater world.
Now, with the premiere date approaching, Hall is filled with excitement and anticipation. “It has a name. It has a poster. Tickets are on sale,” she exclaimed, acknowledging the whirlwind of activity leading up to the show. “I have to keep my voice,” she added, underscoring the importance of preparation and self-care in her new endeavor.
Embracing New Challenges
At this stage in her life, Hall is not slowing down; instead, she is embracing new challenges and opportunities. “I’m winding up,” she said, reflecting on her mindset as she approaches her 60s. “I’m still dreaming and still thinking of new things to do.” This “main dish energy,” as she describes it, keeps her motivated and engaged with different generations, allowing her to connect with both younger and older audiences.
Advice for Aspiring Culinary Entrepreneurs
In addition to her theatrical pursuits, Hall remains a guiding figure for those looking to enter the culinary world. When asked about advice for aspiring chefs and entrepreneurs, she emphasized the importance of exploring various career paths within the food industry. “There’s so many other careers in the food world,” she noted, highlighting fields like baking science, food styling, and testing.
Hall cautioned that while many people are drawn to the aesthetics of food, the reality of the culinary profession requires hard work and dedication. “A lot of times, people like pretty food, but they don’t like hard work,” she remarked, encouraging aspiring chefs to gain hands-on experience and test the waters before committing to a specific path.
A Culinary Icon’s Next Chapter
As Carla Hall prepares for her one-woman show, she embodies the spirit of reinvention and creativity. Her journey from the kitchen to the stage is a testament to her versatility and passion for storytelling. With her infectious energy and unwavering determination, Hall continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams, proving that it’s never too late to embark on a new adventure.
For those interested in experiencing Hall’s latest endeavor, tickets for “Carla Hall — Please Underestimate Me” are available now, promising an engaging and heartfelt performance that reflects her unique journey through life and food.
