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Michael Mohammed Ahmad and Billy McPherson.

Billy McPherson, Justin Rosniak and John Shrimpton.

POSTED: 19 JANUARY 2012

I'm Your Man, created and directed by Rosalyn Oades

Belvoir & Bankstown Youth Development Service & Sydney Festival | Belvoir Downstairs, Surry Hills, Sydney | Until 5 February

It’s often a surprise entering the tiny downstairs theatre at Belvoir, with the small space frequently transformed into the most extraordinary settings. For I’m Your Man, it’s no exception. Bald fluorescent lighting, masses of boxing posters and newspaper clippings pasted to the walls, well used gym equipment, and pumping music assaulting the senses as you turn the corner.

Oh yes. Also the smell of liniment.

I’m Your Man is the result of Roslyn Oades’ 18-month journey into the world of boxing, largely through interviews with Bankstown boxer Billy “The Kid” Dib (wonderfully played by Michael Mohammed Ahmad).

Through recorded interviews with “The Kid” and other boxing legends and wannabes, Oades (with script consultant Raimondo Cortese) has created a fascinating, exciting and quite unforgettable experience.

Even if boxing isn’t your thing, I’m Your Man works on a variety of levels as innovative theatre, providing the opportunity to enjoy some excellent performances and to witness the effectiveness of an inventive manner of delivery.

The performers — Michael Mohammed Ahmad, Billy McPherson, Katia Molino, Justin Rosniak and John Shrimpton — wear headphones throughout, and follow verbatim the interviews that only they can hear. It creates an effect of incredible authenticity, down to every cough, stumble and punch-drunk slur.

Outside the theatre, several headsets are available so that the audience are privy to the type of speech the actors will be hearing and emulating. I must admit I was doubtful it would work, but it worked astoundingly well.

What is also remarkable is the stamina and physical fitness required by these performers. When they are not speaking, they are working out — punching, skipping, and doing all manner of physically demanding activities. As a bit of a gym junkie, I was quite astounded by how the actors could maintain this for the 70 minutes of the performance. By the end of the run, they will all be able to go for a title!

The interviews build to an exhilarating climax, Billy getting psyched up for a crack at a world title. As his ‘team’ build him up, it is at once comical and electrifying. For that moment, it’s all that matters.

It is, so to speak, a knockout.

Michael Mohammed Ahmad.

Katia Molino and Michael Mohammed Ahmad.

Katia Molino.

Justin Rosniak and John Shrimpton.