WORLD PREMIERE TICKETS NOW ON SALE –

WORLD PREMIERE TICKETS NOW ON SALE –

Billie Jean

A new play

Sports Icon.

Equality Champion.

GAME CHANGER.

BILLIE JEAN is a new play that tells the story of sports icon and social justice pioneer Billie Jean King bringing equality to women in competitive tennis, and so much more – with humor and heart.

BILLIE JEAN premiered at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater on July 18, 2025.

Praise for Billie Jean

  • Billie Jean is “deeply emotional and beautiful” and is a “very energized and fluid production” that utilizes Playwright Lauren Gunderson’s skills with “poetic language” and Chillina Kennedy, who is “superbly cast in this difficult role.”

    –The Chicago Tribune

  • “An uplifting night at the theater worthy of much more than a polite Wimbledon clap.”

    –Chicago Culture Authority

  • “Not to be missed ... You will leave the theater feeling uplifted and empowered to be the best you can be.”

    –WGN Radio

  • “CST wins the tournament for booking Billie Jean for its world premiere.”

    –GOPRIDE

  • “Lauren M Gunderson has added another significant script to her huge library of successes ... A story that motivates, amazes and entertains.”

    –Chicago Theater Concert Reviews

  • “The entire production is a visual feast ... Kennedy’s performance is extraordinary. Compelling, heartfelt and richly-crafted.”

    –Picks in Six

  • “After decades of fighting for gender equity, I was burning out—until a powerful new play about Billie Jean King rekindled my resolve to keep pushing for change."

    Ms. Magazine

the major players.

Our Director

Our Playwright

Lauren Gunderson

Marc Bruni

Our Billie Jean

Chilina Kennedy

Star of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Great Gatsby, Paradise Square

see chilina on           

spotlight chicago.

Watch Chilina discuss Billie Jean King, Tennis training, and the unique way Billie Jean portrays tennis matches on stage.