The Hippodrome Theatre proudly presents
“The Royale” by Marco Ramirez
This January, join us for “The Royale,” a New York Times Critics’ Pick inspired by the real-life story of Jack Johnson, the first African-American World Heavyweight Champion.
Determined. Brave. Fierce. Loyal. Jay “The Sport” Jackson embodies every characteristic that defines a hero. He trail-blazed across the nation, rising from poverty in the Jim Crow south to take on the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.
“The Royale” brings breathtaking focus to a pivotal moment in sports history — but it is Jackson’s sheer force of will, relentlessness, and fierce belief in himself that will leave you breathless.
“The play is a stylized, blazingly theatrical triumph that keeps audience members on the edge of their seats.” – Miami Herald
Written by Marco Ramirez, “The Royale” is directed on the Hippodrome Mainstage by Ryan George & Lauren Warhol Caldwell.
Tickets on sale now at thehipp.org and 352.375.4477
On stage January 10-February 11 with 8 performances a week Tuesdays at 7 p.m. | Wednesdays at 7 p.m. |Thursdays at 7 p.m. | Fridays at 8 p.m. | Saturdays at 5 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. | Sundays at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.
- Wednesday, January 10 at 7pm: Discount preview
- Thursday, January 11 at 7pm: Discount preview
- Friday, January 12 at 8pm: Opening Night
- Tuesday, January 16 at 7pm: $10 Tuesday (All tickets just $10)
- Sunday, January 21 at 2pm: Free talkback with cast and directors immediately following the show
Content Advisory: Some adult themes and profanity.
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REVIEWS
“Ramirez avoids cliches, preferring to delve deep into his leading character’s psyche and probe such complex questions as whether breaking down barriers or smashing glass ceilings can be almost an accident, and, either way, something not worth the personal cost.” – Chicago Tribune
“[…] a well constructed drama that captures both the beautiful frenzy of boxing and the (sadly still relevant) volatile state of race relations in America.” – The Telegraph
CAST
| Jay | Bryce Michael Wood | |
| Wynton | E. Stanley Richardson | |
| Fish | Ryan George* | |
| Max | Dylan Kammerer | |
| Nina | Renata Eastlick | |
CREATIVE
| Director | Lauren “Warhol” Caldwell |
| Director | Ryan George |
| Stage Manager | Amber Wilkerson* |
| Assistant Stage Manager | Carley Selah |
| Production Manager/Lighting Designer | Robert P. Robins |
| Technical Director | Michael Eaddy |
| Master Electrician | Niel Bearden |
| Scenic Designer | Mihai Ciupe |
| Sound Designer | Amanda Yanes |
| Costume Designer/ Costume Shop Adviser | Jessica Kreitzer |
| Costume Shop Foreman | Jill Parzych |
| Wardrobe | Nichole Williams |
| Props Designer | Tim Dygert |
| Rudi Goblen | Movement Director |