REVIEW - KING JAMES: A SLAM DUNK COMEDY
For its 51st season opener, Theatre Aquarius has enthusiastically brought a bold concept to its stage combining two things that usually don’t mesh: sports and theatre. Fueled by the clever and fast-paced script of Rajiv Joseph, a gorgeous rotating set design by Brian Dudkiewicz and the dynamic performances of its cast (including a live DJ spinning her tracks throughout the show), King James provides refreshing and relatable commentary on fandom, friendship and failure.
Told over twelve years (from basketball star athlete LeBron James’ rookie season in 2004 to an NBA Championship in 2016), King James is an intimate exploration of two friends whose relationship is experienced through their shared love of basketball. As a two-hander on stage, the performances demand high energy and likability to keep us invested in the friendship’s ups and downs which Michael Blake (as Shawn) and Devin McKinnon (as Matt) have in spades. They are equal parts commanding in their roles with well-timed comedic moments and surprising vulnerability throughout the four quarters of the play (both a clever staging technique and nod to the length of a basketball game).
King James finds its greatest strength grappling with questions of connection, loyalty and identity, with an underpinning of race. There’s some discussion about specific basketball players and games, but King James keeps an eye on the larger themes: How does success change a friendship? What does it mean to demand loyalty from a friend? There’s also, as playwright Joseph explores, the resentment toward a Black man rising above what his best friend considers his “proper place.” These are fascinating topics that permeate plays often, but King James offers a unique way of exploring these topics without straying too far from its comedic and relatable nature, thanks in large part to the electric chemistry of the two leads.
To alleviate any concerns about the subject matter, no you don’t have to be a basketball fan to understand or relate to this play as it is ultimately about human connection. This was made clear in well-rounded audience of all ages (many donning sports jerseys) sport-enthusiasts and not. This fascinating bridging of sports fandom and theatricality is so refreshing and allows Theatre Aquarius to offer an experience that many would not necessarily be accustomed to. I highly recommend checking out this slam dunk of a season opener. Don’t miss it.
All photography by Dahlia Katz
