A Delicate Friendship: ‘King James‘ Explores Connection and Change on Stage
Pittsfield, MA – Barrington Stage Company is currently hosting a compelling new play, “King James,” which delves into the complexities of male friendship set against the electrifying rise of basketball superstar LeBron James. The production, written by Rajiv Joseph and directed by Rob Ruggiero, premiered to audiences on August 19, 2025, and runs through August 31 at the St. Germain Stage.
The Narrative Unfolds: Two Lives Intertwined
The play centers on Matt and Shawn, two young men in their twenties whose initial connection stems from a shared interest in the Cleveland Cavaliers and their burgeoning rookie sensation, LeBron James. Over a twelve-year period,the narrative follows their evolving relationship as they navigate personal challenges and shifting life circumstances. The story unfolds in four distinct “quarters,” mirroring the structure of a basketball game, highlighting the dynamic changes in their lives.
Both characters grapple with uncertainty and past struggles. Shawn, a black man, and Matt, a white man, discover unexpected common ground despite their differing backgrounds. You’re allowed to feel the things you feel,
a central quote from the play, encapsulates the emotional honesty at its core.
Did You Know? Rajiv Joseph’s plays often explore themes of identity,connection,and the search for meaning in modern life,earning him critical acclaim and numerous awards.
Strong Performances Bring Authenticity to the Stage
blake Morris delivers a nuanced performance as Shawn,portraying a character grounded in reality even amidst personal setbacks. Gregory Perri embodies Matt with a raw vulnerability,capturing the character’s internal struggles and tough transitions. The actors’ chemistry creates a palpable sense of familiarity, making the audience feel as though they are eavesdropping on a genuine conversation.
Production Design and Thematic Resonance
Rob Ruggiero’s direction is visually engaging, complemented by Luke Cantarella’s impressive set designs that vividly recreate Cleveland landmarks. While Danielle Preston’s costume design doesn’t fully reflect the characters’ evolving success, John Lasiter’s lighting effectively sets the mood. The play’s use of LeBron James as a symbolic touchstone is clever, though the narrative ultimately focuses on the intricacies of the friendship itself.
Pro Tip: Consider the play’s title as a metaphor.Just as LeBron James’s career represents ambition and achievement, the characters’ journey reflects their own personal quests for fulfillment.
The play’s conclusion, featuring a symbolic basketball game, feels somewhat anticlimactic.While intended to mirror the themes of competition and connection, it doesn’t fully resonate with the emotional depth established throughout the production.Despite this, “King James” remains a thought-provoking exploration of male friendship and the challenges of navigating life’s transitions.
Performance Details and Ticket Details
“King James” is playing at the St. Germain Stage at Barrington Stage Company’s Sydelle and Lee Blatt Performing Arts Center, located at 36 Linden street, Pittsfield, MA. Performances run through August 31.Tickets and information are available on the Barrington Stage website or by calling (413) 236-8888.
| Play Title | Author | Director | Venue | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| King James | Rajiv Joseph | Rob Ruggiero | St. Germain Stage, Barrington Stage Company | August 19 – August 31, 2025 |
What aspects of male friendship do you find most challenging to portray or understand? And how do cultural icons like LeBron James influence our perceptions of success and connection?
The themes explored in “King James” – friendship, ambition, and the search for identity – are universally relatable and continue to resonate with audiences across generations. The play’s exploration of these themes within the context of a specific time and place (early 2000s Cleveland during LeBron James’s rise) adds a layer of cultural meaning. The enduring appeal of stories about human connection suggests that these themes will remain relevant for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About ‘King James’
- What is “King James” about? “King James” is a play about the evolving friendship between two men, Matt and Shawn, over a twelve-year period, set against the backdrop of lebron James’s early career.
- Who wrote “King James”? The play was written by Rajiv Joseph, a critically acclaimed playwright known for his insightful explorations of human relationships.
- Where is “King James” being performed? The play is currently being performed at the St. Germain Stage at Barrington Stage Company in Pittsfield, Massachusetts.
- What are the key themes of the play? Key themes include male friendship, ambition, identity, and the search for meaning in life.
- How does LeBron James factor into the play? LeBron James serves as a symbolic figure representing ambition and cultural impact, but the play primarily focuses on the relationship between Matt and Shawn.
We hope you enjoyed this insightful look into Barrington Stage Company’s production of “King James.” Share this article with your friends, leave a comment below with your thoughts, and be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more arts and culture coverage!
