Kate Whoriskey directs the piece, a co-production with South Coast Repertory. The show will travel to SCR after its Baltimore run. The work is set at the turn of the 20th century. Lead character Esther has a knack for creating beautiful lingerie, hence the play's title. Her wares are sought by women in Park Avenue homes and Tenderloin bordellos alike. Her personal life, meanwhile, is occupied by George, who writes her love letters from the Panama Canal, where he labors on the channel. When George finally travels to New York to meet Esther, the meeting sets up several troubling questions.

Nottage was inspired by her real-life grandmother, who made lingerie in turn-of-the-century New York. Shané Williams stars as Esther and Kevin Jackson is George.

According to Center Stage, Nottage is busy writing a companion piece to Intimate Apparel. It will be set a century later and premiere at New York's Playwrights Horizons. The show runs until March 30. Tickets are $25-$45. Call (410) 332-0033 for tickets and information.