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From our Leadership:

Dear Friends,

As we welcome King James to the stage, we’re reminded that some of the most meaningful stories don’t begin with grand gestures, but with shared passions — a game on TV, an argument over statistics, a moment of hope tied to a hometown hero.

Rajiv Joseph’s King James follows two men whose friendship is forged through their devotion to basketball and shaped by the rise, fall, and return of LeBron James to Cleveland. Over more than a decade, their bond is tested by ambition, disappointment, loyalty, and love. What emerges is a funny, heartfelt, and deeply human portrait of how we connect — and how the things we care about most can both unite and divide us.

In a time when so much pulls us apart, King James reminds us of the joy of shared experience, the art of friendly disagreement, and the profound ways relationships grow when we keep showing up for one another.

Productions like King James are at the heart of Richmond Shakespeare’s mission: telling bold, accessible stories that reflect the world we live in now, while creating space for conversation, laughter, and community. But like many theatres across the country, we’re navigating a moment of real challenge. Declining public arts funding means we rely more than ever on the generosity of patrons who believe in the power of live theatre.

When you support Richmond Shakespeare — by attending, becoming a member, or making a gift — you help ensure that stories like King James continue to be told in intimate spaces where they can truly connect.

We’re so grateful to share this season with you. We hope you’ll join us for the rest of our season, including Macbeth, As You Like It, and The Importance of Being Earnest.

With gratitude,

James Ricks                  Jase Smith Sullivan

Artistic Director                Managing Director