Review: APT’s “The Royale” speaks to the legacy of iconic boxer Jack Johnson through humor, passion, and struggle

Isaac Trussoni, Madison365

“And you know as well as I –

A pair of Black boys ain’t never gon’ see that front page”

This is the core frustration of boxing phenomenon Jay “The Sport” Jackson, made visual and palpable front stage as The Royale took to American Players Theater (APT) this past week. The production, directed by Tyrone Phillips, takes the work of Marco Ramirez’s captivating ode to boxing legend Jack Johnson and brings it to life with rhythm and heart.

The production features only a few characters throughout its 90-minute run time but focuses on the people closest to the boxer. Jamal James played the role of Jackson, while his coach Wynton, played by Reginald André Jackson, and sparring partner, Fish, played by Jaylon Muchison, took roles as the main support for the athlete.

Read the full review here.