Gypsy Queen
Assembly Studio 5
13:20
“Can two men raised to fight ever learn to love? The story of traveller ‘Gorgeous’ George O’Connell, who enters the world of professional boxing, putting him on a collision course with his roots, his identity and his greatest fear. In the opposite corner, gay boxer Dane ‘The Pain’ Samson, young pretender and son of a boxing legend, is fighting his own battle, leading to a tragedy neither could predict. Back at the Fringe after a successful run in 2017, Gypsy Queen is a critically-acclaimed love story between two fighters who discover the greatest challenge lies outside the ring.”
Review by Richard Lambert, 4 Stars
Coming from a Gypsy background brings prejudice – you’re rough, tough, don’t necessarily bathe daily, a bit light-fingered and perhaps like fighting. But what if you’re a Boxer who doesn’t fit any of these presumptions? What if you’re gay? Unexpectedly confronting Dane, a confident gay Boxer who’s father is the legend who runs the local boxing club, Gorgeous George has his World turned upside down as he juggles who he’d like to be while coming to terms with who he really is.
Set predominantly in the boxing club there are old school style changing room peg hooks and benches. With costumes and towels hung to enable quick changes into multiple characters the 2 actors present a very slick highly polished production which has both wit, humour, drama and heart!
Possibly a few too many distracting set movement changes but from each of these emerge strong charismatic characters – each one welcomed back like a true friend. The play packs in the story-lines with lots of material for each of the characters. The actors’ characterizations and accents instantly switching from one role to another are truly impressive!
Technically competent throughout, this production is well Cued and sets the bar high for 2-hander plays on the Fringe!
Cast
Rob Ward – Gorgeous George
John Askew – Dane the Pain Samson
Producer – Hope Theatre Company
Web:.gypsyqueentour.com Web: assemblyfestival.com
Twitter: @GypsyQueenTour Facebook: /GypsyQueenTour
LISTING INFORMATION
Venue: Assembly George Square Studio Five, EH8 9JZ
Time: 13.20 Running Time: 70 mins
Dates: 01 – 27 August. Previews 3 August. No show Tue 14 and 21 August.
Bookings: assemblyfestival.com, 0131 623 3030 or Assembly box offices at Assembly Hall and Assembly
Roxy, Assembly George Square, Assembly Checkpoint and Assembly Rooms
PRESS CONTACT