Prize Fighter

The message behind this play is something one can't ignore. Based both in war-torn Congo and Australia, it's a mythical representation inspired by the author's own personal experiences and his attempt to weave the art of boxing into a symbolic gesture and demonstrate the post-trauma associated with the realities of his past. Some of these realities are stark and grim, stemming from a storm-treaded part of the world ravaged by conflict and tragedy, but what is more to the point is that Congo has some of the richest mineral resources and yet is one of the poorest nations on earth. It's not surprising therefore that La Boîte have chosen to delve deeper into this terrible scenario and transform the author's story into a stage presentation we rarely see in this country.

With a cast of six playing a number of different roles, except for the central character Isa in a moving and mesmerising performance by Pacharo Mzembe, we are first introduced to a taste of what life is really like in Congo before moving into the Australian boxing ring, a place where we can see this sublimation of the crucial elements of a story that has had little exposition: 'You're here to box, not fight' says Luke, his trainer, played in true character by Margi Brown-Ash, and one of the pivotal points in demonstrating this transition into the next chapter of his plight.

With additional good performances all round, especially Sophia Emberson-Bain, an actor to keep an eye on, and a theme worth exploring, this play tends to educate rather than entertain. The scene is effectively set in the opening segment, with life in the boxing ring full of activity and atmosphere, and the story succinctly told but contemporary theatre sometimes needs more gimmickry than simply bringing to light a political story. This cast are to be applauded for their contribution to Australian society; and international concerns are often a great source of inspiration for the creative mind, but whether they always provide a suitable backbone for the entertainment world is another issue.

Still, one can't help but ponder on some of the philosophies behind this author's profound determination and spirit and it's certainly refreshing to see a play stemming from black African roots.

As he penned:

'Defeating your opponent needs strategies but defeating your memories requires more ......'

I'll always remember this quote; and to divert slightly, East Africa was the place of my birth.

Brian Adamson

Images: Dylan Evans Photography