Is it better to know that something bad is coming and, then subsequently, while trying to prepare, worry about it, or live life in ignorant bliss?
The Problem With The Seventh Year at the White Bear Theatre sees a man (James McGregor) trying to live a double life.
By day, he’s a medical student on his way to becoming a doctor, possibly a paediatrician. By night, he’s embedded in the world of boxing, first as a competitor, but then, after a dirty fight, he becomes a ‘cutman’ at full-contact fights.
The cutman patches up the fighters in between bouts, but also has the power to stop the match should they think a fighter’s injuries are too bad.
Boxing is intoxicating for him. He’s drawn to the psychology and the violence of the match, which can sometimes spread beyond the competitors.
It’s an addiction, a world he can’t stay away from, even when his medical studies are suffering. He gets warnings about his not 100% attendance and his behaviour, which can become aggressive.
The White Bear Theatre’s small, square performance space almost perfectly replicates a boxing ring.
There are no ropes but a lights mark the edge of the fighting arena and there is the small stool for the ‘fighter’ to sit on in between bouts. A ‘ding ding’ between scenes (bouts) adds to the atmosphere – and tension.
James McGregor gives a compelling performance as a man stuck between doing the sensible thing and pursuing that which ignites the fire in his belly, however grubby and dangerous that might be.
He’s a magnetic storyteller and presence, delivering Nicholas Pierpan’s words in a way that had the audience gripped.
It’s a play where the tension gradually builds, but perhaps not one for those sensitive to hearing descriptions of injuries.
Even if you don’t know or care for boxing (I don’t), it is an interesting story, well told. I’m giving it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Problem With The Seventh Year, White Bear Theatre
Written by Nicholas Pierpan
Directed by Paul O’Mahony
Performed by James McGregor
Running time: 80 minutes
Booking until 15 November 2025
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