Prize Fighter

Isa, a Congolese boy, comes to Australia as refugee seeking escape from the brutal civil war and unspeakable horrors that plagued the land of his birth. He settles in Brisbane and soon finds a passion for the sport of boxing. Disciplined in his training and committed to the sport, he eventually finds himself fighting for the title. However, when he steps into the ring, he is not only fighting his opponent; he is fighting his memories and demons, he is fighting for redemption.

Inspired by personal experiences, this play from Future D. Fidel seeks to go beyond the statistics (on child soldiers, and rape) that have come to characterise the story of the Congolese civil war. The show seeks to give the audience an insight into the reality of what is not being shown; the trauma, and family loss, that many Congolese experience, and, moreover, the search for new beginnings, on which they have embarked. It does so whilst drawing parallels with the sport of boxing.

Prize Fighter promises a unique theatrical combination: engrossing storytelling, coupled with the atmosphere and adrenaline of boxing. After an explosive debut in Brisbane, this Sydney Festival presentation co-produced by La Boite Theatre Company and Brisbane Festival has been hotly anticipated. Get your ringside tickets early, as this show is bound to be highly popular among theatre goers. (RP)

Jan 6–22, varied performance times. Belvoir St Theatre, 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills. $40-$72. Tickets & info: www.belvoir.com.au 

BY RAFFAELE PICCOLO