Champion, Live Theatre Newcastle Review
Written by Stacy for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Champion is a compelling and thought-provoking new play by Ishy Din, set against the backdrop of 1977 South Shields, during Muhammad Ali’s historic visit to the UK. The play explores the intersecting lives of a working-class family as they grapple with issues of identity, race, and societal change. Through the lens of a mother, Sheila, and her two sons, Bilal and Azeem, Champion weaves a deeply emotional narrative that reflects the tensions of the era—marked by the Queen's Silver Jubilee, the rise of punk culture, and the looming threat of the National Front. Rich in both humour and heartache, the play is a poignant exploration of family, resilience, and the fight for a better future.
Ishy Din’s script is a richly layered exploration of family, identity, and societal tensions in 1977 South Shields. The play masterfully intertwines historical events—particularly Muhammad Ali’s visit to the UK—with personal and political struggles, creating a narrative that is both intimate and expansive. Din’s writing shines in its nuanced character development. Each character feels fully realised, with distinct voices that reflect their generational, cultural, and personal struggles. Sheila, Bilal, and Azeem are not just representatives of their time but deeply human figures whose conflicts resonate beyond the play’s historical setting. The dialogue is sharp, naturalistic, and often infused with humour, which helps balance the play’s heavier themes, capturing the everyday realities of working-class life while weaving in larger discussions about race and belonging. The play deftly tackles issues of racism, identity, and social change. By setting Champion against the backdrop of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, the rise of punk culture, and the National Front’s influence, Din underscores the era’s cultural and political turmoil. The script does not shy away from difficult conversations, confronting racism head-on while also exploring the family’s internal tensions. The symbolism of boxing—both as a literal sport and as a metaphor for struggle—is woven throughout, giving the narrative a strong thematic backbone.
Jack McNamara’s direction brings Champion to life with a dynamic and immersive approach that balances the play’s emotional depth with its historical and social themes. He skilfully guides the actors to deliver naturalistic and deeply felt performances, ensuring that every character’s journey feels authentic. McNamara’s use of pacing keeps the audience engaged, with moments of high tension seamlessly woven between quieter, more introspective scenes. One of the standout elements of his direction is the way he stages confrontation—whether verbal or physical—using the language of boxing. The choreography of these moments is striking, reinforcing the play’s central themes of struggle and resilience. McNamara also embraces the humour in Din’s script, allowing the lighter moments to land effectively, providing contrast to the play’s heavier themes.
Amy Watts’ stage design is both striking and symbolic. The set cleverly transforms the stage into a boxing ring, creating a visual metaphor for the battles—both internal and external—that the characters face. This design choice reinforces the idea that each character is fighting their own struggles, whether it be grief, identity, or societal pressures. The setting also effectively transports the audience to 1977 South Shields, with careful attention to period details. Subtle elements of design, such as the use of props, posters, and lighting, help establish the era while avoiding excessive nostalgia. The versatility of the set allows for smooth transitions between scenes, maintaining the play’s momentum without unnecessary interruptions. McNamara’s direction, paired with Watts’ innovative stage design, results in a production that is visually and emotionally compelling. The combination of intimate family drama with bold theatrical elements makes Champion not just a play, but an experience—one that lingers in the mind long after the final scene.
Christina Berriman Dawson delivers a powerful portrayal of Sheila, the grieving mother at the heart of the play. Her performance brings a raw emotional depth to the role, balancing strength and vulnerability to make Sheila’s struggles deeply moving and authentic. Dawson’s presence anchors the play, providing both warmth and resilience as she navigates the challenges of raising her two sons. Jack Robertson plays Bilal, the elder son, with a compelling mix of frustration, ambition, and loyalty. He expertly conveys Bilal’s internal conflict, torn between his mother’s expectations and his own desires in a world fraught with racial and social tensions. Daniel Zareie, in his professional stage debut, offers a nuanced and powerful performance as Azeem, the younger son. His portrayal of a young man grappling with identity, racism, and family dynamics is both heartfelt and dynamic, transitioning seamlessly from moments of youthful naivety to intense emotional confrontations, making him a standout in the production.
A breathtaking and unflinching portrayal of resilience and hope— Champion is a knockout story of love, loss, and the fight for identity in a changing world. With gripping performances, sharp writing, and dynamic staging, the play offers a compelling look at identity, resilience, and the struggles of a changing Britain.
At Live Theatre, Newcastle until 8 March 2025
★ ★ ★ ★
