Feltman: World's First Hot Dog at Orlando Family Stage - Black Box Theater

Before sliced bread, there was the hot dog! Actor, playwright, historian and former Feltman's hot dog brand owner Michael Quinn brings this incredible true story to life, performing every role in a dynamic one-person show. Travel back to 19th century Coney Island as German immigrant Charles Feltman rises from struggle to revolutionize street food. Quinn, who himself successfully revived the legendary brand before facing his own challenges, weaves a powerful parallel between past and present. Blending humor, heart and history, this must-see performance tells the story of resilience, reinvention and the food that changed the world!

Written and performed by former Feltman’s owner Michael Quinn, the show brings to life Charles Feltman—the young German immigrant who arrived in New York, made his way to Coney Island, and helped create the hot dog as America knows it. Quinn plays a gallery of characters in a fast-moving story of immigration, ambition, New York history, Coney Island, and the remarkable modern revival of a brand that history nearly erased.

This 60-minute production received a four-star review from The Scotsman during its run at the Edinburgh Fringe and has enjoyed a successful New York City run. Directed by Peter Michael Marino, Feltman: World’s First Hot Dog is equal parts theater, history lesson, and love letter to the city and boardwalk culture that gave America one of its most enduring foods.

“This is the story of a man history forgot,” says Quinn. “Charles Feltman changed American food forever, and somehow most people have never heard his name. I get to bring him—and the wild, colorful world of old Coney Island—back to life.”

The play is family friendly. We recommend 14+ for interest in the material but there are no restrictions on age.

What: Feltman: World’s First Hot Dog

When: Friday, October 23, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.

Where: Orlando Family Stage's Black Box Theater - 1001 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803

feltmanworldsfirsthotdog.com for tickets & trailer