Life is a basketball game… or is it vice versa? 

This past Saturday afternoon I had the privilege of attending the D’Youville Kavinoky Theatre’s production of King James written by Rajiv Joseph. I was a little apprehensive, I’ve never seen a basketball game and looked forward to learning how it could be equated to life. I found the note from the director, Thembi Duncan, as well as her direction of the play to be clearly stated and detailed leaving no room for confusion or doubt.

Donnie Woodard’s set design had to accommodate several scene changes flawlessly executed second only to a well choreographed dance. I’ve always admired Brian Cavanagh’s work and true to form his lighting design was right on point. The colors of the costumes chosen by Amaya Mack spoke to the demeanor of each character. The calming effect of earth colors for Matt in opposition to the bright white shirt of Shawn. To the entire production team I say bravo! 

This was my first time watching these two gentlemen work so I had no preconceived expectations. The last thing I want to see on stage is acting. Once a performer steps onto that platform they must make me believe and that can only happen if they believe. Somethings cannot be written in a script or called upon on demand… repeating a phrase because it felt right, stammering on a word, a glance, movement of the body… one tear. Things like these only happen if they believe and although the cast list Brendan Didio and Jake Hayes I believe I spent the afternoon with Shawn and Matt and I believe you’ll feel that same way too. Run time  1:45 which includes a 15-minute intermission, onstage until November 24.