'Breeding Boxers on the Breadline'

In the deprived valleys of the 1930s, boxing was more than just a sport; it was a way out of poverty. Merthyr-born Cuthbert Taylor, now seen as one of the best boxers of his generation, should have had the opportunity to fight for a British title, but was denied this chance because of the colour of his skin.

Following a successful run in 2024, The Fight is coming to the Sherman Theatre in Cardiff, thanks to support from Cardiff Council and the Arts Council of Wales.

For Schools Performances, please scroll down.

Written by Geinor Styles

Directed by Kev McCurdy

Through its blend of artistry and advocacy, it proves that acknowledging and learning from the past is neither an uncomfortable nor passive experience. It’s also a reminder that there has been and will be bad in the world, but if we follow after and fight like Cuthbert Taylor, there will always be far more resilience, hope, and goodness.
Molly Stubbs, Nation.Cymru
Packages

Cardiff Schools

Available Monday - Friday:

  • A performance of the play 'The Fight' at the Dylan Thomas Theatre (at 10am or 1pm)
  • A Q&A with the cast
  • Free online resources

The Fight is offered to schools in the City and County of Cardiff for free thanks to support from Cardiff Council and the Arts Council of Wales.

Multi-award winning Theatr na nÓg’s new show introduces your children to themes such as:

  • Life in working class valleys’ communities in the 1920s-40s

  • Institutional racism, immigration and colonialism

  • The history of boxing past and present

Banner image reads The Fight, Written by Geinor Styles, Directed by Kev McCurdy

The Fight Secondary School Resources

These resources have been developed and curated by Theatre na nÓg to support the stage production The Fight and enrich your classroom practice. Grouped under four themes — Background History, Poetry Corner, Today, and Step into Boxing — they offer flexible, pick-and-mix activities for Year 8 learners aligned to the Curriculum for Wales. Whether you're exploring local history, tackling themes of identity and injustice, or want to support learners on their own boxing journeys these resources aim to help your learners Explore, Respond and Create through meaningful, real-world contexts.

'Tastefully executed, the performance evoked deep emotions of sadness and injustice, highlighting the painful reality of discrimination. Through its compelling narrative and sensitive approach, the play left a lasting impact, on both teachers and children, urging us to reflect on the wrongs of prejudice and the importance of equality.'
Year 6 Teacher, St David's Catholic Primary School
Production
Kev McCurdy
Director
Geinor Styles
Writer
Carl Davies
Designer
John Rea
Composer
Elanor Higgins
Lighting Designer
Ceri James
AV Designer
Emma Stevens Johnson
Voice Coach
Ian Barnard
Sound Designer
Alison Palmer
Production Manager
Supporters