Scottie Barnes, the Toronto Raptors star forward, has embraced theater as a central part of his life. His journey into the world of musicals began with his fascination for the Broadway hit “Hamilton,” which he has attended multiple times.
Scottie Barnes’ Love for Theater
Barnes first attended “Hamilton,” a renowned musical that narrates the story of Alexander Hamilton through hip-hop and R&B, during a trip to New York City. The play, which has garnered significant acclaim since its debut, received 16 nominations and won 11 Tony Awards in 2016, including “Best Musical.”
Thanks to Raptors assistant coach Jama Mahlalela, Barnes discovered the world of theater. After initially declining the offer to see the show, he decided to join Mahlalela, who has a long-standing passion for theater. “Let’s try it out,” Barnes remarked after considering the invitation.
An Expanding Passion
After his first experience with “Hamilton,” Barnes found himself captivated by the music and storytelling. He said, “I’ve seen it seven or eight times now. It’s become a part of my identity.” Since then, he has explored other plays in both New York and Toronto, including “Les Misérables,” “Wicked,” and “The Lion King.”
- First Broadway Play: Hamilton
- Other Plays Attended:
- Les Misérables
- Wicked
- The Lion King
- Chicago
Impact on His Life
Basketball coach Darko Rajakovic has praised Barnes for having interests beyond the sport. He emphasized the importance of finding hobbies outside basketball. Barnes has also expressed that theater has positively influenced his life and interactions with teammates, encouraging them to seek out similar experiences.
Barnes’ passion reached new heights when he participated in the National Ballet of Canada’s production of “The Nutcracker” in December 2025. He and teammate Jamal Shead shared a unique experience by playing the role of a “Cannon Doll,” showcasing his willingness to try new things.
Looking Ahead
As Barnes prepares for the upcoming NBA season, he has set his sights on becoming an NBA All-Star. He is currently averaging impressive statistics and aims to maintain his impact on the court. “I’m just trying to play basketball the right way,” he stated.
Should he get selected for the All-Star Game in 2026, Barnes is excited about the prospect of experiencing more theater, potentially seeing productions like “Here Lies Love.” His journey from basketball to Broadway illustrates the transformative power of the arts in sports and beyond.
