As the play deals with the various life expectations the characters have, it raises serious questions while never losing its sense of humor.”

The smell of BBQ fills the air as you enter Wilbury’s theatre space at the Waterfire Center.

Scenic Designer Shanel LaShay Smith has created an urban back yard decorated for a family celebration, complete with balloons, karaoke machine and a table full of ribs and potato salad.

Juicy, a queer black man, (Dana Reid) is setting up for the party when he is visited by the ghost of his father who is seeking revenge for his murder by Uncle Rev, who has married Juicy’s mother.

Sound familiar?

Sounds very much like the plot for Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” which Gamm opens next week.

Playwright James Ijames has taken many liberties in writing the tragicomedy to parallel the classic, creating modern characters who reveal their culture, heritage and personal lives, creating a dysfunctional family much like Hamlet’s.

Maria Albertina plays Tedra, Juicy’s mother, who spreads her sexuality and affection for her new husband.

Juicy is torn between his love for his mother, his conscience and orders from his ghost father to kill Rev (Jermaine L. Pearson).

Others show up for the party, including Juicy’ s pal Tio (Jeff Ararat), his gay cousin Opal (Autumn Jefferson), Marine cousin Larry (Mamadou Toure) and Aunt Rabby (Michelle L. Walker).

All have secrets which are revealed, as playwright Ijames cleverly works in how life can be difficult for Black families as the young have a different set of values that often conflict with the previous generation.

As the play deals with the various life expectations the characters have, it raises serious questions while never losing its sense of humor.

Juicy has moments where he brings his brief soliloquies directly to the audience, often asking our opinion and approval.

“The plays the thing. . .” is the turning point is Shakespeare’s version, where he confronts his uncle to find out the truth.

Juicy uses the game of charades.

The play has two clever endings: One dramatic and the other hilarious, thanks to some careful direction from Don Mays.

“Fat Ham” is different. It is challenging. It is R rated but does show some restraint in its language.

It is not to be missed.

At Wilbury Theatre. Visit wilburytheatre.com for tickets and show times.