Theatre production by University alumnus Rob Ward: 'Gypsy Queen'
12 Sep 2016
On Friday 23 September, 7pm, at the Martin Harris Centre.
Written by Rob Ward
Can two men raised to fight ever learn to love?
“There are only three things that need to be accomplished before the devil comes home: one of them is homosexuality being legal”
Tyson Fury, World Heavyweight Champion, 2015
Undefeated bare-knuckle fighter ‘Gorgeous’ George O’Connell leaves his traveller roots behind to embark on a career as a professional boxer under the tutelage of legendary trainer Vic Samson. Through a developing relationship with Vic’s openly gay son and fellow boxer Dane, George begins to learn more about himself than he ever had done before. But when the time comes to fully embrace this newfound identity, can George be true to himself?
‘Gypsy Queen’ is the story of two men who find themselves, and each other, in the most unlikely of worlds and asks what they are willing to do when the fight moves outside of the ring. A play about the influence of our roots, the satisfaction of our desires and the formulation of our identity.
Gypsy Queen began life as Champion, a short play as part of ‘To Russia With Love’ organised by several LGBT theatre makers in Manchester in February 2014 (an event protesting the staging of the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia and with funds raised donated to a Russian LGBT organization).
Rob decided to extend the play following comments made about the LGBT community by boxers Tyson Fury and Manny Pacquaio over the past 6 months.
University drama alumnus Rob Ward is a Manchester based actor, writer, former director of Working Progress Theatre Company and current member of Hope Theatre Company.
Please note:
- Age 15+
- This production contains strong language and scenes of a sexual nature
To book:
Tickets are priced at £5.50 / £3 and are available from:
- Martin Harris Centre Box Office 0161 275 8951 (12.30-2.30pm weekdays) or
- Online at Quaytickets