Syracuse Sun

Syracuse Stage is set to continue its 2024/2025 season with "King James," a play by Pulitzer Prize-nominated playwright Rajiv Joseph. The production, directed by Jamil Jude, is a co-production with Indiana Repertory Theatre and will run from February 26 to March 16 at the Archbold Theatre in Syracuse.

Artistic director Robert Hupp stated, "Sporting events, like theatre, offer that rare opportunity to bring people together, to share common, communal experiences." He added that the play invites everyone—regardless of their interest in sports—to experience a story about friendship and the complexities of loving something bigger than oneself.

Set in Cleveland in 2004, "King James" follows two superfans as they navigate their friendship amid LeBron James's rise to fame. As LeBron makes pivotal career decisions, the fans' relationship faces challenges that reflect broader themes about sports and loyalty. Director Jamil Jude commented on the dual nature of sports fandom: “Sports can bring disparate people together, and yet, the fanaticism of some can further the divides in our world.”

The cast includes Quinn M. Johnson as Matt and Enoch King as Shawn. The design team features Czerton Lim for sets and Dawn Chiang for lighting. Newcomers Ari Fulton (costumes) and Mikaela Fraser (sound) join for this production.

Jude is noted for his work focused on socially relevant art. He currently serves as artistic director at Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company in Atlanta. Playwright Rajiv Joseph has received acclaim for his works including "Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo," which was a Pulitzer Prize finalist.

Tickets start at $30 with various discounts available. Special performances include Pay-What-You-Will nights from February 26 to March 2 and several open-captioned shows scheduled throughout March.

Additionally, Syracuse Stage will host a panel discussion featuring former Syracuse Orange athletes Eric Devendorf and Eric Jackson on February 26 before the first preview of "King James." This event will explore how sports build community through fandom.

Trivia Night returns this season on February 27 with Dillon Hupp hosting an event free for ticket holders who register online.

Support for this season comes from sponsors including the Slutzker Family Foundation and Advance Media New York.