Rajiv Joseph's King James makes its Off-Broadway premiere via Manhattan Theatre Club as the production officially opens May 16 after beginning previews May 2. Tony winner Kenny Leon directs the new play at New York City Center Stage I. Performances continue through June 18.
Glenn Davis (Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo) and Chris Perfetti (Abbott Elementary) star as Shawn and Matt, respectively, alongside Khloe Janel as DJ. The play tracks the friendship between Shawn and Matt, whose fortunes are tied to those of their idol, Cleveland basketball star "King" LeBron James.
The play comes to New York following earlier runs at Steppenwolf Theatre Company in Chicago and Center Theatre Group in Los Angeles. Both Davis and Perfetti are reprising their performances from both of those world premiere engagements.
The production features scenic design by Todd Rosenthal, costume design by Samantha C. Jones, lighting design by Lee Fiskness, and sound design by Rob Milburn and Michael Bodeen. Casting is by JC Clementz, with additional casting by Caparelliotis Casting and Kelly Gillespie. Richard A. Hodge is production stage manager.
