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Regional Reviews: Raleigh/Durham Red Pitch
The play revolves around teenage boys Bilal, Omz and Joey, who are growing up in south London. Economic development and gentrification are changing the landscape as they train together on their favorite soccer pitch with the hopes of finding fame and success playing professionally. The charismatic Jaden Rogers portrays Bilal, whose father pushes him more than he may like to achieve the success he was not able to reach himself. Omz, performed by the engaging Jireh Ijeoma, seems overconfident in his skills but, underneath, holds doubts while having to care for his elderly grandfather. And then there is Joey, played by the charming Quinn Gray, who has the more privileged background of the three and pushes his friends to plan for their future and seek help where there may not be any from their home environment. Avis Hatcher-Puzzo directs the 85-minute play and, though there are some lagging points that could have been cut and long, too-quiet pauses and scenes of playful movement, it eventually evolves to a strong and satisfactory conclusion. The excellent set design is provided by Southern Concepts Design & Build, turning the intimate theatre space into a believable outdoor soccer pitch. Jennifer Ijeoma's costume design is impressive, as the play has several costume changes throughout its short time frame. Juan Isler provides supportive sounds of the construction surrounding the pitch, with occasional bursts of local protests bringing to light the disapproval of residents. There is a great moment early when the construction sounds become percussion music ambiance for the boys as they use it to boost their energy for practice. Thania Melendez rounds out the main creatives with lighting that enhances mood and atmosphere to great effect. The impact of gentrification is real and is felt by many who have taken pride in their neighborhoods and towns. And though its impact is heard as background noise and occasionally referenced by the characters, it is not as strongly emphasized as it could be here. The stronger messages the play left with this reviewer were the challenges youth in transition often find themselves dealing with. As the character Bilal brings up, he is unsure if things are what he really wants to do or if it is something that he is being forced to do. That is a question we may all ask ourselves in navigating this world of choices and expectations. Red Pitch, produced by Burning Coal Theatre Company, runs through February 22, 2026, at Murphey School Auditorium, 224 Polk St., Raleigh NC. For tickets and information, please visit www.burningcoal.org or call 919-834-4001. Playwright: Tyrell Williams Cast: |
