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I’m Your Man

The buzz of pre-fight anticipation greets you as you enter the Waterside for I’m Your Man presented by Vitalstatistix. The ringed arena beckons with grunts and growls from within, radiating. Steeped in history, this venue lacks only liniment as seven of Australia’s boxing community share their experiences of what it means to be a fighter. Garnered through interviews and the insightful observations of Roslyn Oakes, this 18 month creation is worth the wait.

Billy ‘The Kid’ Dib knows what he wants: the fame. As he moves towards a title fight, it is his story that forms the foundation for a documentary style sharing of the drive, deliberations and desires of the boxing gym. Joined by such legends as Jeff Fenech, Tony Mundine and the enigmatic Gus Mecurio, we train, rest and reflect among punching bags, speed balls and event posters.

Michael Mohammed Ahmad is an unabashed Billy, irrepressible in his delivery. Katia Molino and Raimondo Cortese challenge preconceptions, Billy McPherson provides stability while Justin Rosniak astounds. The depictions of our boxing legends (aspiring and retired) draw you in as the narrative thread of pursuing a world title weaves its way between imagination and reality. The fact that characters seem to own a distinct area of the stage is strategic and does enable greater audience appreciation.

“The more you sweat, the less you bleed.” This tagline is embodied by Roslyn Oakes’ direction as the performers train religiously, accompanying the headphone-verbatim monologues that are the essence of this theatre mash. Movement is controlled, orchestrated by the bell with subtle lighting by Neil Simpson used to soften the starkness of the training facilities. In contrast, the fight night scenes reflect the vibrancy of the occasion with sound design by Bob Scott enhancing the experience.

I’m Your Man is physical eye-candy and once you enter the Black Box, you do not rest, as on stage the pace is energised and “second winds” are both witnessed and welcomed. Lee Wilson’s movement direction is unobtrusively impressive; moments of cohesion and calm are dynamic. This show can be summed up in the words of Billy himself: “I want the fame; I refuse to lose; it’s a good feeling.” It is time to get the gloves off.

I’m Your Man is on at the Waterside, Port Adelaide until August 11. Tickets here.

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