The Piedmont College Theatre is beginning the new year with a lyrical look into the life of the boy who became perhaps the most famous boxer of all time.
At the sound of the bell, young Cassius Clay Jr. takes his first step into the ring and starts becoming the man the world would know as Muhammad Ali. This swift, vibrant historical drama bobs and weaves through the iconic boxer’s early life in Jim Crow-era Louisville. An unlikely hero is a classic story, but And in This Corner goes an extra, exhilarating round by exploring how remarkable communities help to create them.
Directed by Kathy Blandin and music directed by Amin Abraham-Quiles, And In This Corner: Cassius Clay is an insightful and entertaining take on one of America’s greatest sports heroes.
“I first heard about And In This Corner nearly four years ago when it was in development at Stage One Family Theatre. I begged a good friend to send me an early script, and, as soon as I read it, I was hooked,” said Blandin. “Cassius Clay’s childhood experiences helped shape his ideas about civil rights, activism, and standing up for what you believe. At a time when our country is so politically divided, I believe it is important to tell these stories, so we never forget what such division can breed.”
Piedmont College Theatre will present And In This Corner: Cassius Clay in the Black Box Theater at the Swanson Center for the Performing Arts at 7:30 p.m., February 14-16 and 2 p.m., February 17.
General admission tickets are $5, and Piedmont faculty, staff, and student tickets are free.
Tickets may be purchased online at www.piedmont.edu/fa or by calling the Box Office at (706) 778-8500 x1355.
