By David Gardette
Shadow boxing presented by theatre works and feet first collective
Shadow Boxing is one of those shows that grabs you and doesn’t let go. It’s raw, intense and instinctive. Written by James Gaddas in 1989, and premiering in 1994, the play centres on Flynn, a boxer trying to make sense of who he is in the world. It’s a powerful look at masculinity, shame and societal pressures on just what and who a man should be.
Flynn’s a working-class fighter on the cusp of a major breakthrough in his career, but beneath the surface he’s grappling with a deeper, more personal conflict—his sexuality. As he trains and fights, he battles the internalised voices of his father, his coach, and society at large, all of whom have shaped his understanding of what it means to be a man. The story reveals a man torn between the identity he’s been taught to perform and the truth he’s struggling to accept.
Samuel Addison is an impressive and captivating Flynn. Playing 15 different characters that feel distinct and real, the 55-minute show is a physical achievement – a rigorous workout: skipping, punching, push-ups, sit-ups. It’s fascinating to watch, and Addison never misses a beat. His performance is full of grit and heart, and you can feel every bit of his conflict.
Director Teresa Izzard keeps things grounded and real, with a vision that never overcomplicates. The set is simple—a boxing ring—but it becomes an intense, emotional space where Flynn’s memories, fantasies, and fears come to life. Her direction is sharp and intentional, allowing the emotional moments to hit without feeling forced, balancing the physicality with moments of vulnerability. The lighting and sound design are coherent with the intensity – moody shifts and pulsing beats pull you into Flynn’s headspace. It’s all very stripped back, but very effective.
What really resonates is how relevant this story still is. It doesn’t shy away from the confronting topics—male violence, mental health, internalised homophobia—but it also doesn’t offer easy answers. It’s not just a play about boxing or being gay—it’s about the fight to be yourself when the world keeps telling you not to be. And that’s what makes this production powerful.
If you’re after theatre that’s honest, intense, and emotionally charged, Shadow Boxing is must-see. Samuel Addison gives a commanding performance, and the whole production is tight, insightful, and moving. It’s the kind of show that stays with you long after you’ve left the theatre.
Image:Hannah Jennings Media
