Pickleball at B St. Theatre: Pickleball, the nation’s fastest-growing sport, now has a stage to match its explosive popularity. The B St. Theatre is hosting Pickleball, an uproarious farce written by Jeff Daniels, that dives into the hilarious yet hazardous world of middle-aged competition. Directed by M. Graham Smith, the play is a sharp reminder of the lighter side of life, centering around the quirky yet intense lives of those who find purpose on the pickleball court.
A Community Obsessed
The characters in Pickleball are driven by their obsession with the sport, with little else to distract them. Larry (John Lamb) and Billie (Amy Kelly) are partners with a shared goal: advancing from a 2.5 to a 3.0 rating. For Larry, this upgrade promises more attention from women, while for Billie, it’s a tribute to her late wife, who tragically passed away on the court. Their opponents, Sheldon (Greg Alexander) and Spike (Jason Kuykendall), bring their own blend of rivalry and camaraderie. Sheldon, still nursing an injury, blames Spike’s aggressive “poaching” for his physical woes.
Meanwhile, Spike, though heartbroken after his pickleball obsession ended his marriage, seeks guidance from the enigmatic Perfect (Stephanie Altholz), a YouTube pickleball sensation who was trained by none other than the Dalai Lama. She even possesses a “killer serve” she was sworn never to use—a promise she predictably breaks, with both hilarious and disastrous results.
A Cast That Shines
The cast of Pickleball excels in physical comedy, with John Lamb and Amy Kelly standing out as a dynamic duo. Their chemistry on stage is palpable, as their comedic timing and physicality blend seamlessly. Greg Alexander’s dry wit contrasts perfectly with Jason Kuykendall’s earnestness, creating a balanced and engaging onstage rivalry. Stephanie Altholz is spot-on as Perfect, embodying the role with flawless comedic timing and a commanding presence that befits a reigning pickleball champion.
A Fully Immersive Experience
The production’s success is further amplified by Christina Barrigan’s vibrant set and lighting design, Ethan Hollinger’s soundscapes, and Eva Herndon’s thoughtful costume design, all of which plunge the audience into the high-stakes world of pickleball. The choreography by Jacob Gutierrez-Montoya also deserves a special mention, as it provides some of the play’s most memorable moments of laughter, underscoring the physical comedy that is central to the show’s appeal.
Secure Spot
Pickleball offers a delightful escape into a world of silliness and self-awareness, particularly resonating with those who are over forty and still full of life. The play runs through September 22nd at the B St. Theatre, and with tickets selling fast. Tickets can be purchased online at BStreetTheatre.org, at the Box Office located at 2700 Capitol Avenue, or by calling (916) 443-5300.
News in Brief: Pickleball at B St. Theatre
Pickleball at the B St. Theatre is a hilarious farce by Jeff Daniels, capturing the obsessions and absurdities of middle-aged pickleball players. Directed by M. Graham Smith, the play features standout performances and physical comedy, with John Lamb, Amy Kelly, Greg Alexander, and Stephanie Altholz leading the charge. The show runs until September 22nd, and tickets are available online or at the theatre’s box office.
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