Red Pitch, penned by Tyrell Williams, has taken the West End by storm with its limited-time run. I had the pleasure of attending this electrifying play at the ultra-hip Soho Place in Tottenham Court Road. Let me give you a glimpse into this extraordinary production and why I loved it.
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What is Red Pitch About?
Red Pitch, a book by Tyrell Williams, has also won 5 Best Debut Play awards. It revolves around three lifelong friends, teenagers living on an estate in London, who are brought together by their shared football pitch. As you watch them live out their lives and chase their dreams of football stardom, you’ll witness the challenges they face when the estate they love comes under threat. Will their friendships withstand the test of time?
Red Pitch unfolds on a neglected football field in south London, where three young black friends—Bilal, Joey, and Omz—nurture dreams of football greatness. As they hone their dribbling and tackling abilities, their banter weaves together family stories, girl talk, Instagram aspirations, and the longing for a better life. The play delves into themes of urban transformation, personal growth, ambition, and the profound fear of abandonment. Yet at its core, it celebrates the unbreakable bonds of friendship that tie us together.
The Cast and Creative Team of Red Pitch
There are three main cast members of Red Pitch:
- Bilal played by Kedar Williams-Stirling (seen in Sex Education)
- Joey played by Emeka Sesay (Seen in The Power)
- Omz played by Francis Lovehall (seen in Small Axe)
The play is Directed by Daniel Bailey and has won five prestigious awards, which include:
- Best New Play (Off West End Awards)
- Most Promising Playwright (Evening Standard Theatre Awards)
- Best Writer (The Stage Debut Awards)
- Most Promising Playwright (Critics’ Circle Theatre Awards)
- George Devine Award
My Review of Red Pitch the Play
Red Pitch left me buzzing and feeling upbeat! This vibrant play is perfectly attuned to the pulse of our times, making it incredibly relatable. Let me share my thoughts about Red Pitch in my review:
The modern Soho Place theatre, is nestled in a roundel, providing an excellent view from every seat.
As the lights dimmed and the football pitch emerged, I felt transported to the heart of the action. Imagine a worn football field, complete with a metal fence and scattered footballs and rucksacks. It’s straightforward yet evocative—a canvas for the boys’ dreams and struggles.
Bilal, Joey, and Omz—are three friends are that are the epitome of cool. Their ritual of tapping the chain on the gate as they enter or leave the pitch spoke volumes. It felt like a symbol of their bond, their shared history, and their love for the game.
These three teens all have their hopes pinned on becoming football stars with the likes of falling back on college or being U-Tubers which I thought was very with the times! However they all have very different lives at home and as the estate they live get demolished bit by bit so does their lives together.
The play sparkled with humor and clever wit, capturing the everyday banter you’d anticipate from teenagers their age. The stage transformed subtly through lighting cues, yet the well-defined scenes effortlessly guided us—whether they were on the football pitch, lost in dreams of stardom, or dancing in a pulsating nightclub.
The play raced forward, leaving us jaw dropped with its moments of shock with stage fights—raw, intense, that were seemingly real—holding us captive. The choreography was nothing short of brilliance, and the cast inhabited their roles flawlessly.
Who would Red Pitch appeal to?
Red Pitch left an indelible mark on me, and I believe it would resonate with a wide audience. Whether you’re a theater enthusiast, a London lover, a football fan, or simply seeking something fresh and lively, this play delivers.
As a mother of two teens navigating life’s twists and turns, I felt a deep connection. The risks of pinning hopes on dreams—whether in football, acting, or the realm of influencers—are palpable. Red Pitch serves as a powerful reminder that ambition comes with both exhilaration and vulnerability.
Where is Red Pitch playing in London?
Red Pitch is now playing at London’s newest West End theatre, Soho place. You can purchase tickets starting from £25.
The play runs until May 4, 2024, with performances Monday to Saturday at 7:30 PM and matinees on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 3:00 PM.
Red Pitch has a running time of 90 minutes with no interval.
Please note that the production features strong language, loud sounds, and flashing lights, so it’s recommended for ages 14 and above.
Absolutely! Mark your calendars and secure your seats—it’s a must-see for 2024!
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