Fighting Irish at The Belgrade

The dynamic is spelt out from the start when the boys parade raucously onto the set, a display of male violence that evolves into a hypnotic stomping rhythm. 


Jamie McGough’s debut play follows the McGough family in the 70s as they fight in boxing championships in more ways than one. The writing is magnificent, balancing social and historical commentary with family drama and a healthy dose of infectious Irish tunes. 


The cast are fantastic, nailing the tension and family dynamics, with Louis Ellis, Christian James, Daniel Krikler, and Peter Losasso beyond convincing as siblings Jarlath, Sean, Martin, and Jimmy respectively. Shady Murphy was incredible, standing in as Eileen McGough, momma bear incarnate. 


The set is a boxing ring in the centre of the room, flanked by the audience on all sides. It works well for the most part, especially making the audience complicit in the fighting scenes, but does mean some of the dialogue gets lost when the actors are facing away from you. 


The boxing scenes are choreographed to perfection, with an elegance bringing the comparisons to poetry to life. Clever adjustments to the sound and lights transform the intimate space into the atmosphere of an arena.


The narrative and themes are relatable to anyone who has struggled with their cultural identity, but this story is intrinsically connected to Coventry, and there is no better venue for it to be performed than the Belgrade. 


Fighting Irish shows at The Belgrade until 16th April. Buy your tickets here.


*****