Directed by Lowell Williams, “The Opponent” looks at the hardscrabble world of boxing from the perspective of a small-time boxing gym owner, the seen-it-all-and-then-some Tremont “Tre” Billiford (Enrique Galan) and a young up-and-comer, the charismatic and fast-moving Donell Fuseles (Kedar Myers). The play explores difficult truths revealed as questions of loyalty, dreams deferred, and fractured losses that become unearthed. Tensions quickly rise between the two broken men as both accuse the other of causing the failures that define their lives while approaching the inevitable fight that will ultimately prove who truly is the champ.
“The Opponent” marks the first professional theatrical production since the pandemic halted productions produced by the Center. The last professional production was Charlayne Woodard’s “Pretty Fire” in 2020.
Marshall L. Davis, managing director at AHCAC, welcomes audiences back, stating, “We are delighted to bring professional theater back for South Florida audiences. This play promises to keep patrons entranced by its stunning performances.
“We chose ‘The Opponent’ to further the Center’s mission, highlighting local talent and providing another opportunity to share unique stories rooted in diversity – and hope,” Mr. Davis continued.
Chicago Tribune’s Chris Jones describes “The Opponent” as “a great new play that dances, parries and, most important, lands some killer punches.” TheatreMania adds that the work “concisely captures the dirty and disillusioning business of growing into adulthood—a path that sadly forces us to recognize the fallible humanity of our most respected mentors.”
The play contains language that is inappropriate for young audiences. “The Opponent” contains some material that may be unsuitable for children under 14 years old. Parental accompaniment is recommended.
Tickets may be purchased at www.AHCACMiami.org. The general admission ticket price is $25. The official opening night and reception is Saturday, October 8, 2022, at 7 p.m., and is priced at $30.
For additional information, call the Center at: 305-638-6771. The box office opens an hour before show time, and the house opens 15 minutes before show time. Discount rates for groups are available.
