Ahmanson Theatre Brings Family Stories to Life Beyond the Counter
Brandon McKnight Reflects on Journey to Starring in “Kim’s Convenience”
Brandon McKnight’s path from a mechanic in Toronto to an acclaimed actor reflects a profound journey of self-discovery. Before gaining prominence on television and in film, McKnight faced a crossroads, uncertain if he should continue repairing cars or pursue his passion for acting. Encouraged by older colleagues to explore alternative career paths, he attended a performance at the Soulpepper Theatre Company—an experience that would shape his future.
Now, McKnight is embodying one of the lead roles in “Kim’s Convenience,” a play written by and starring Ins Choi, which is currently in previews at the Ahmanson Theatre in downtown Los Angeles. Directed by Weyni Mengesha, the 90-minute production opens its four-week run on March 24.
The play, which inspired a five-season Canadian television series, depicts the life of a Korean family running a convenience store. McKnight, who previously appeared in the TV adaptation, plays four characters who visit the store.
“It’s the first play I paid for, my first TV show, and now the first play where I’m starring in maybe 12 years,” McKnight said. “It’s a lot of firsts, a lot of full-circle moments for me.”
After deciding to pursue acting, McKnight landed small roles in various films, including “The Shape of Water.” His breakthrough came in 2019 when he joined the sixth season of “The Flash” as Chester, transitioning from a recurring role to a main cast member.
Unlike many of his peers, McKnight does not worry about being typecast. “I was like, this is a no brainer,” he stated. “It’d be ridiculous for me to refuse. And about being typecast as far as acting, it’s a tough industry to be in. So, to be in a position where you can be typecast is a blessing.”
After more than three years on “The Flash,” he sought a new challenge, eager to expand his repertoire. “If you want to make money, do TV; if you want to be famous, do movies; if you want to be good, do theater. And I thought, I want to stretch, try some new things,” he said.
In “Kim’s Convenience,” McKnight’s characters include a realtor, a man from Kenya, and a Jamaican. He meticulously crafts their accents, tones, and backstories. The fourth character is Alex, a police officer dating Janet, played by Kelly Seo.
Seo, who first encountered “Kim’s Convenience” at Soulpepper, shares a similar emotional connection to the production. After seeing the play, she and a friend approached Choi for an autograph, a moment she later reminisced with him when she was cast for the tour.
“It wasn’t like, oh, finally a role for me… it was cool to see a full Asian cast,” Seo explained. “It was really celebrating a culture on a theatrical stage.”
This is Seo’s third involvement with the play, and she describes the current cast as particularly special. “When we first met at the rehearsal, there was a certain magic to it,” she recalled, noting that everyone in the cast shared a commitment to storytelling without ego.
One of her favorite aspects of the tour has been post-performance discussions, where audience members share personal connections to the play, particularly regarding familial conflicts. “Regardless of what culture you come from, there is that essence of wanting to be acknowledged by your parents,” she said.
The diverse themes in “Kim’s Convenience” significantly influenced the Center Theatre Group’s decision to join this tour. General Manager Eric Sims emphasized the play’s relevance in today’s world. “What I really love about this play is that it’s not a political play, but it is kind of made political by the context of the world we live in,” Sims noted. “Ultimately, it’s really a play about family and love and forgiveness.”
“Kim’s Convenience”
- WHEN: Various times through April 19 (opens March 24)
- WHERE: Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles
- COST: Tickets start at $40.25
- INFO: 213-628-2772
