Page 169 - FINAL_Guildhall Media Highlights 2019-2020 Coverage Book

Boxing as a powerful metaphor for deep-

rooted racism in the US

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KNOCK-OUT PERFORMANCE: Shaka Kalokoh as Jack Johnson
LIKE The Gift, currently playing at Theatre Royal Stratford East,

Marco Ramirez’s play offers a thoughtful and necessary
engagement with black history.

Set in the first decade of the 20th century, The Royale’s focus is
US boxer Jack Johnson, the “negro” world heavyweight
champion.

But while he might be the best boxer at his weight on the planet,
he can’t fight for the title because the reigning heavyweight

champion won’t get into the ring with a black man.