Play packs a punch on and off the stage

Fuad Esack

19 MAR 2026, 12:22

3 min read

Claremont playwright William Makin landed a solid jab with his boxing spectacle, Gloves Off, which opened at the Homecoming Centre, formerly known as The Fugard Theatre, in District Six, last night.

A knockout tale of friendship, bitter rivalry, and battles that hit harder outside the ring, Gloves Off throws the audience into the ring with Billy “The Kid” Nkosi, played by Lefa Motshele, and Joe “The Prince” Brink, portrayed by Makin. They’re set to clash for the national title — but before the bell even rings, bigger battles threaten to knock them both out.

Fresh off a knockout run in the Netherlands in 2025, last night’s opening marks the first performance in front of a home crowd.

Makin said true friendships bring out the best in people, and that Billy and Joe’s rivalry reflects this. While they push each other as competitors, it’s their attitude that sets their friendship apart, with the play showing how this shapes their bond.

Although not based on real-life events, Makin said he's drawn to the drama and pageantry of the ring. "I have been a boxer for seven years, and I have always been captivated and inspired by the spectacle and attraction of boxing events," he said.

"I think there is a lot of ceremony and entertainment surrounding the main event. Gloves Off attempts to capture this spectacle and, at its heart, create a drama with a personal rivalry," he said.

Motshele’s Billy “The Kid” goes toe-to-toe with Makin’s Joe “The Prince,” matching him pound for pound in every scene.

This begs the question: what’s more nerve-wracking: waiting in the dressing room for the bell to ring or waiting in the wings for the curtains to rise?

“For now, I’d say performing on stage is more nerve-wracking, and that’s a good thing, because it means you care,” Motshele said. “No matter how much experience you have, nerves are always there before a performance, and I’ve learned to embrace that,” he added.

Unlike his rival, played by Makin, who brings seven years of boxing experience to the stage, Motshele steps into the spotlight with zero fight experience.

Untested in the ring, Motshele moves like a contender, following a rigorous training regimen to help him prepare for his role.

“I started boxing at the end of 2025. After a short break, I resumed training in February for this production. I haven’t competed professionally or at an amateur level yet, but I’ve developed a strong foundation through training. I’d definitely like to step into the ring, or even a cage, one day,” he said.

Saving his punches for later, Motshele prefers pouring every ounce of energy into shaping his character.

“The play begins with Billy at the peak of his career—he’s fit, focused, and the reigning champion in his division,” Motshele said. “As the story unfolds, we see how promoters shape narratives through rumours and media to sell fights. Billy becomes affected by this, and it begins to impact his mental state and performance, especially going into the biggest fight of his life. After a major loss, he’s forced to reflect and rediscover who he is beyond boxing and winning.”

While ambition and success are important, it’s just as crucial to appreciate the people and relationships around you, Makin said. “It’s easy to get caught up chasing achievements, but often the most meaningful things, like love, support, and connection, are already around us.”