Shadow Boxing is a hard hitting, one-man show depicting the story of a gay, male, champion boxer who proved to the sporting world that even after being outcast and blacklisted, his talent and dedication would prevail.
Shadow Boxing – written by James Gaddas – had essentially next to no set. The stage lay bare with nothing but a bucket, boxing gloves and a punch bag. This set worked nicely as it was utilised by performer Daniel Newton effectively. The empty stage also symbolised Newton’s character, Flynn’s loneliness.
Gaddas writing is very intelligent and poetic. The spoken word style delivery of text really brings the story to life. Gaddas really delivered an intriguing and beautifully told story, that was very easy to follow and dive into.
Daniel Newton was fantastic as Flynn. His delivery of the flowing dialogue was perfect in timing and execution. He had an amazing stage presence, using the empty space frequently and making it into something other than just empty air on a stage. Each sentence and each part of the story are delivered with such raw emotion that you believed what he was saying and you were there with him. The moments of movement and contemporary dance were beautiful and never once took away from the story, but actually making the moments even more of a stand out for Newton. If there is one criticism it would just be slow down the shadow boxing and make it look more clean and accurate, which in turn will make it more realistic and effective. Otherwise, an outstanding performance.
In conclusion, Shadow Boxing delivers an enticing and lovely story about fight, heart and love, performed by a stand out performer. From comedy, to sorrow, to championship scraps in a street light – this play has it all.
More info here –
Theatre Scotland 
Leave a comment