Details

London, 1869. Four very different Victorian women are drawn into the dark underground world of female boxing by the eccentric Professor Sharp. Controlled by men and constrained by corsets, each finds an unexpected freedom in the boxing ring. As their lives begin to intertwine their journey takes us through grand drawing rooms, bustling theatres and rowdy Southwark pubs where the women fight inequality as well as each other. But with the final showdown approaching only one can become the Lady Boxing Champion of the World... Based on historical research into 19th century women's boxing, The Sweet Science of Bruising is a fascinating new play by Joy Wilkinson (Verity Bargate Award winner). Featuring an ensemble cast and thrilling up-close boxing matches, this is an epic tale of passion, politics and pugilism.

Cast/Performers

Owen Brenman (Professor Charlie Sharp), Celeste Dodwell (Violet Hunter), Jane How (Aunt George), Tom Lorcan (Paul Stokes), Emma McDonald (Anna Lamb), Wilf Scolding (Gabriel Lamb), Ashley Cook (Doctor James Bell), Alice Kerrigan (Emily), Jessica Regan (Matilda - Matty - Blackwell), Fiona Skinner (Polly Stokes)

Creatives/Company

Author: Joy Wilkinson
Company: Troupe
Director(s): Kirsty Patrick Ward, Kirsty Patrick Ward (fight director)
Design: Anna Reid
Lighting: Peter Harrison
Sound: Max Perryment
Music: Max Perryment