Gloves On is now part of the Ragroof Theatre
archive of works and no longer touring
"Gloves On. That's the moment. That's when it's gonna happen."
Steve Martin, Ex-Boxer
Set in a fullsize boxing ring, this physical performance
investigates the intricacies of courage and honour, ritual and spectatorship.
The show explores boxing and its place
in British psyche, conveying the emotional, physical and psychological challenge
of a boxer’s experience.
The compere introduces his fighters for the evening’s spectacle. The
audience is invited to take the side of the champion or challenger as the boxers
display their pugilistic prowess. Stories of boxers and their families collide
in the ring to a pumping soundtrack against a backdrop of urban art. Pounding
break-beats fill the space as the fighters enter the ring to the raucous delight
of the crowd.
The battle commences... Which side will you take?
Gloves On will transform indoor and outdoor spaces to reflect the intense and
visceral atmosphere of boxing clubs.
In 2009 Ragroof presented two work in progress performances, site-specific to
Brighton Boy’s boxing club, and the Lion club in Shoreditch. This process
greatly influenced the development of Gloves On.
As part of the creation of the show in 2010 Ragroof continued the community
outreach aspect of their creative process; researching, interviewing and archiving
legacy material. The company works with local boxing clubs with the aim of involving
young, local boxers in the performance, in their community.
In April 2012, Ragroof will be taking up residence in the Blackwood Miner’s
Institute, Caerphilly, working with local boxers, and NEET youth, who will perform
in Gloves On.
To see 2012 tour dates for Gloves On click here.
To make a tour booking enquiry or request a DVD and information pack click here
Gloves On is supported by:
