Writers Theatre presents The Royale through late November

Audiences in Glencoe can see a new production of The Royale at Writers Theatre through Nov. 29. The play, written by Marco Ramirez and directed by Tyrone Phillips, is set at the turn of the 20th century and follows the rise of a fictionalized boxer based on Jack Johnson, the first Black world heavyweight boxing champion.

The production opens with two main characters, Jay and Fish, on the eve of a major fight. Jay, played by La’Tevin Alexander, is a legendary prizefighter, while Fish, played by Ajax Dontavius, is an ambitious young protege. Coach Wynton, portrayed by James Vincent Meredith, and manager Max, played by Scott Aiello, surround the fighters. Nina, Jay’s sister, is played by AnJi White.

The play uses a minimal set designed by Lauren M. Nichols, featuring a single punching bag. The narrative draws on the life of Jack Johnson, who served time in jail alongside Jewish boxer Joe Choynski. Choynski taught Johnson defensive boxing techniques that improved his skills. The characters in the play also reflect historical figures and social forces from the Jim Crow era.

The production includes movement direction by Rasell Holt, incorporating stepping and rhythmic clapping. These elements reference Black fraternity traditions and African dance. The text also references jazz, linking the movement to musical motifs. The play’s title alludes to Ralph Ellison’s novel Invisible Man.

Performances are scheduled for Wednesdays at 2 and 7:30 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 and 7 p.m. There is a single performance on Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 7:30 p.m., and a single matinee on Friday, Nov. 27, at 2 p.m. There is no show on Thursday, Nov. 26. An additional matinee occurs on Sunday, Nov. 15, at 2 p.m.

The theatre offers accessibility features on specific dates. American Sign Language interpretation is available for the Saturday, Nov. 14, 2 p.m. performance. Open captions are provided for the Thursday, Nov. 19, performance. The run concludes on Sunday, Nov. 29.

Tickets range from $35 to $95. The theatre is located at 325 Tudor Ct. in Glencoe. The box office can be reached at 847-242-6000 or online at writerstheatre.org.