World Premiere of Billie Jean King Play Opens Chicago

The world premiere of the play "Billie Jean," centered on tennis legend Billie Jean King, is currently being performed at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater through August 10. The play, written by Lauren Gunderson and produced by Lily Tomlin, highlights King's achievements as a Grand Slam champion and her activism for women's rights and the LGBT+ community. Chilina Kennedy stars as King and has deeply studied King's mannerisms and style, even receiving personal tennis tips from King herself during rehearsals. Gunderson emphasized the importance of heroes like King today, describing her as a Shakespearean character embodying heroism and great love. King, who recently attended Wimbledon, reflected on the growth of women's tennis and her lasting connection to Chicago's sports community. The production is praised for its relevance, portraying King’s ongoing fight for equality and the evolving nature of the community she represents.