Upon entering the venue, you are brought into the boxing ring with memorabilia on display, including antique boxing gloves and photocopied sheets of the local news article from Ali’s visit, available for anyone to take. Furthermore, audience members are provided with in-depth playbills including information on the playwright’s connection to the story and the entire script. Little details like these build the world before the lights can even dim and the actors utter their first line. As the audience enters the theater they’re met with a boxing ring-like stage, dramatically lit to build anticipation, like one would for a real professional match.
The content of this play is a difficult battle to take on but the actors hold their own, landing solid punches with their raw, authentic portrayal of the struggles the characters are faced with. The contrast between each of the characters’ experience as a mixed family is particularly interesting as their father’s passing impacts their identity differently, with each actor expertly showcasing these intricate details. At the same time the actors, particularly Jack Robertson as “Billy,” can cleverly deliver humorous lines in moments of relief, like a boxer’s break in the corners of the ring. The lines roll out easily, with no stiffness detected.
The lighting in this show is almost its own actor as it emphasizes the quarrels between the present actors as well as the physical and conceptual conflicts faced in the world. It truly draws the audience in and adds an additional layer to the characters’ emotions. Furthermore, while this is a play, rather than a musical, there is background sound, designed by Matthew Tuckey, at times that helps build tension, almost like an intense heartbeat, and indicate the severity of the situation.
Overall, I believe this play is one not to miss. From the actors to the production to the writing, this play tells an emotional and local tale that more people need to hear and experience. I for one did not know much about Muhammed Ali or his visit to South Shields and I’m very glad to have learned about the impact he and his visit had on many, specifically the Muslim community, in such a unique and powerful manner.
Catch Champion at the Live Theatre through March 8, 2025.