Set in 1979, Fighting Irish tells the story of prejudice, corrupt officials and warring factions in Ireland amongst an event that tests family unity to the core.

Written by Jamie McGough, and making its world premiere at the Belgrade, it is the true story of the rise and fall of the McGough brothers, from their home in Coventry to the National Stadium in Dublin and an Irish light-heavyweight title.

Directed for Coventry UK City of Culture 2021 by the Belgrade’s Creative Director Corey Campbell, the production is staged in the round with the boxing ring the central point of action.

It’s all about boxing brothers Jarlath, Sean, Martin and Jimmy McGough. Jarlath returns to Dublin to defend his fighting title, but in a time of unrest in Ireland, being seen as English doesn’t make life easy. The future of his career and the family name lies in the hands of the courts and proving the corruption of the Irish officials.

The staging works well and the boxing scenes are well choreographed, with movement staged by Corey Campbell and Lucy Glassbrook and fight consultants Jon Pegg, Barrington Patterson and Jamie McGough, they are authentic and truthful.

The lighting design by Joe Hornsby helps to portray the moods of the characters moving between white for their inner monologues to red for the heavy fight scenes and everything in between.

Colm Gormley as Martin Joe McGough is an Irishman who finds himself in the Midlands with his family, and sits seemingly easy into the role as Father and head of the family alongside his wife Eileen and Peter Losasso as the youngest son Jimmy McGough, (and writer Jamie’s Father), plays the role with equal parts of youth and the strength to step up for family loyalty.

This production has a relevant home in Coventry, but it’s a story that can be understood nationwide, family loyalty and a passion for sport being easily transferrable.

A loyal tale of family and justice.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Rachel Louise Martin

Fighting Irish plays at The Belgrade Theatre, Coventry until 16 April, with tickets available here.