The Sweet Science of Bruising

By Joy Wilkinson

Directed By Julia Head

This isn’t a proper match, Polly. Think of it more like a dance. You learn the steps, then talent and practice make it look natural.

I don’t want to be a dancer. I want to be a fighter.

London. 1869.

Pugilism, punch bags and… petticoats?

In the fierce underbelly of London’s boxing scene, surrounded by smoke, bowler-hats and bare-knuckle boys, four women controlled by men and constrained by corsets find an unexpected
freedom in the ropes of the boxing ring.

The Sweet Science of Bruising is Wilkinson’s bold exploration of suffrage and silence, of politics and power and of flight and fight. It invites you to consider what you’re willing to win, or lose.

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Nick Hern Books