Coming to Broadway

Billie Jean

A new play

THE SKILL TO

ROCK THE COURT.

THE GUTS TO

CHANGE THE WORLD.

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 had its world premiere at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater in summer 2025, and was awarded Broadway World’s Best New Play or Musical of the Year produced in Chicago for 2025. Learn more about that production here.

Learn more about Billie Jean King here.

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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

Meet the Producers
The Complete Chicago Production Cast