Cast and creatives announced for world premiere of On The Ropes at Park Theatre

Casting and creatives have been announced for the world premiere of On The Ropes at Park Theatre.

Running 6 January – 4 February 2023, the play about Black British boxer Vernon Vanriel has been co-written by the remarkable protagonist himself, together with sporting playwright Dougie Blaxland and is directed by Anastasia Osei-Kuffour.

Mensah Bediako (RSC, National Theatre, Respect: The Aretha Franklin Songbook Tour, The Bodyguard Tour, Young Vic) stars as Vernon with Ashley D Gale (RSC, Theatre Royal Windsor, Captain Corelli’s Mandolin Tour), and Amber James (Leeds Playhouse, Almeida, Regent’s Park Theatre) as multi-rolling chorus members.

This musical drama, staged in a boxing ring, unfolds in 12 ‘metaphorical’ rounds featuring key moments in Vernon’s life. He came to Britain aged six with his family as part of the Windrush Generation and quickly rose to prominence as one of the UK’s most charismatic and influential Black British boxers of the 70s and 80s.

In 2005, having lived in North London for 43 years, Vernon found himself trapped in Jamaica; homeless, penniless and denied access to medical care for a heart condition. What followed was a prolonged fight with the British Home Office for his right to citizenship.

Pulsating with the rhythmic energies of blues, reggae and boxing, On The Ropes is a celebration of how courage, dignity and a fighting spirit can triumph over prejudice and injustice.

Presented by The Production Exchange and Park Theatre, the production’s creative team is made up of musical director Ian Oakley, movement director and choreographer Gaby Nimo, set & costume designer Zahra Mansouri, lighting designer Holly Ellis, sound designer Gareth Fry, casting director Harry Blumenau, production manager (for eStage) Peter Rickards and company stage manager Lucy Ventham.

For more information and tickets, visit parktheatre.co.uk

Vernon Vanriel said: “After 13 long years of being voiceless and invisible the writing and staging of On The Ropes has given me the opportunity to be acknowledged and heard. Having my story told in my own words will mark the final step in my homecoming.”

Co-writer Dougie Blaxland added: “Vernon’s story is the ultimate embodiment of courage and endurance, and it has been a privilege to work with him as co-writer to bring his story to the stage. He has been the alpha and omega of the creative process as both the inspirational source and the editor.”

Director Anastasia Osei-Kuffour who also directed the critically-acclaimed hit show and film Typical starring Richard Blackwood in 2019, commented: “I’m drawn to true stories, real people and real situations which highlight where and who we are as human beings today. Vernon’s story feels urgent and important. I hope this play raises greater awareness about the significant contribution he made to British Boxing and the continuing injustices and repercussions faced by members of the Windrush Generation and their families. This is a story with weighty themes, told in a joyful and playful way.”