This September, Know Theatre of Cincinnati is bringing audiences King James by Rajiv Joseph. Described in short as “a clever comedy about basketball, chosen brotherhood, and LeBron James,” the show is an energetic and warm welcome to the theatre’s 28th season.
The Production Team
Darnell Pierre Benjamin is easily becoming one of this reviewer’s favorite Cincinnati directors. Their expertise in all things movement-related combined with their own comprehensive understanding of the acting process make for a winning combination. King James is smartly staged in Know’s Underground and it is an ideal setting for this cozy play about a big friendship between two humans. The actors make excellent use of the playing space and the action flows naturally thanks to Mx. Benjamin’s keen vision.
Scenic Designer (as well as Technical Director) Drew Homan dunks a half-court shot with ease with their exceptional attention to detail in this set’s design and versatility. Complementing Mx. Homan’s talents seamlessly are those of Properties Designer (and rock-star Stage Manager) Rebecca Armstrong. Each and every piece on the stage and in use by the actors was created knowing the playing space was intimate and nothing was missed. In fact, this production team is strong and mighty. Each deserves kudos for their excellent work: Lighting Designer Jules Cabrera; Sound Designer Douglas Borntrager; and Costume Designer Noelle Wedig-Johnston.
The Performing Artists
With a show spanning 12 years in only 105 mins, that factor alone can make casting difficult. The audience, however, is fortunate enough to witness some seasoned acting chops in the likes of Kieran Cronin and Phillip Latham. Not only are these gentlemen able to adjust to aging in front of our very eyes, but they each bring a solid footing–and their chemistry is terribly engaging.
Mr. Cronin plays Matt, a lifelong Cavs fan who begins the play in the first stages of yet another venture to be successful. Per usual, no spoilers from me–but even through Matt’s ups and downs, you will still find yourself rooting for this flawed human. I was particularly impressed by the level of restraint Mr. Cronin shows in his more anxious moments; it can be an easy default to make it overly hyper and he does not. Well played all-around.
Phillip Latham plays Shawn, a kind and creative friend whom we’d all love to have. Mr. Latham’s talent as a character actor is one of the best in the business. We see right into Shawn’s soul very much off the bat. He also portrays a calmness that is both palpable and much-needed throughout the story. Every choice Mr. Latham makes is deliberate and authentic. He is a believable Cleveland native.
The Sweet and Lowdown
While you do not need to be a basketball fan in order to appreciate Rajiv Joseph’s text, I was happy to get maybe a wee bit more from the sports references as a fan myself. (Yes, you can like both theatre and sports!) But the theme here is not only a simpler time, but about pursuing passions. As most of us know, not all of them hold up. However, if the best things in life have a solid foundation, we can find a way to grow with them. I highly recommend taking a trip to Jackson Street this September to make two new friends (or maybe more!) at Know Theatre’s King James.
Tickets for King James
Know Theatre of Cincinnati’s production of King James runs now through September 27th. Purchase tickets here.
