The intimate black box at the Jonesway Theatre in Northbridge couldn’t be more perfect for Feet First Collective’s production of James Gadddas’ Shadow Boxing. The enveloping four walls and proximity to the stage pulls the audience into the world Samuel Addison builds for us as he introduces us to the complex character of Flynn.
Flynn is a boxer who follows in his father’s footsteps, who was also a boxer, albeit far more successful. He is a tormented person stemming from a variety of issues, including a broken relationship with his father and a struggle with his sexuality. This results in him being a person who is isolated and confused about his identity inside and outside the ropes of the boxing ring.
Shadow Boxing. Photography by James Dove.
James Gaddas has not made this labyrinthine text easy to deliver; it’s snappy, demanding, and switches tones so fast it could give you whiplash. But none of that is an issue for Samuel, who presents this stream of consciousness without hesitation. No one in the audience was off-limits for Samuel’s intense gaze as he locked eyes with us, ensuring everyone was immersed and involved in Flynn’s story. Conversations with Flynn and other characters were distinct and easy to follow despite the swift pace and high energy. A whole, fleshed-out, and nuanced world was delivered before us by this one person.
Each design element, including the select few set items, the lighting design, and Bec Price’s sound design, worked in harmony and guided the audience expertly through the story. These elements created repeating patterns that felt methodical and technical, like the thoughts of an athlete during a game or match, while increasing the tension in all the right moments.
Shadow Boxing. Photography by James Dove.
It’s evident that director and producer Teresa Izzard, along with Samuel, have delved deep into this play, thoroughly examining both its content and context, resulting in a work that is practically faultless. The 50-minute show whizzes by but ensures its audience experiences a whole array of sensations and emotions in its short time span, from laughter to pity, to horror and awe. Any solo, one-man show is an impressive feat. Add in boxing, skipping, push-ups, and 50 minutes of rigorous storytelling, and that’s a superhuman ability. I don’t think you’ll find another piece of theatre this polished yet gritty in this year’s Fringe program.
Shadow Boxing is presented by Feet First Collective and is on now at The Jonesway Theatre until Feb 11.