And in This Corner: Cassius Clay
Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, I was fortunate enough to have a childhood that included regular exposure to the phenomenal children’s theatrical productions and theaters that the region has to offer. When I became a mother myself, I knew that I wanted my children to benefit from the same. My kids are currently in kindergarten and 6th grade and it is not always possible to find a production that appeals to them both, or is developmentally appropriate for both. Oftentimes, my oldest child ends up seeing a play that is more geared toward the youngest. When Oregon Children’s Theatre announced their 2017-18 season, I was thrilled to see a production that is recommended for the older set (8 and up). A perfect opportunity to have my 6th grader invite a friend along and make an evening of it!
Cassius Clay opens with a 12-year-old Cassius and his friends, living their lives in a segregated Louisville, KY. Though he already knew he was quick on his feet, a chance encounter with a police officer set him on the path to becoming a boxer. While we watch Cassius develop as a champion and as a young man, we see his family, friends and the world react to the 1955 news account of Emmett Till, a young African American boy who was brutally tortured and murdered for the alleged act of whistling at a white woman. This horrific crime sets the stage for his best friend Eddie joining the Civil Rights Movement.
Returning home from taking the gold in the 1960 Rome Olympics, Cassius is told that his gold medal is his key to the city. He soon learns that even a gold medal does not allow him the right to sit next to his white neighbors and enjoy a milkshake at the local diner. And thus begins Cassius Clay’s own evolution into the world champion boxer and civil rights advocate that the world came to know as Muhammad Ali.
Flawlessly cast and performed, breathtakingly choreographed, and intimately staged in the Winningstad Theatre, Cassius Clay is a play that is too beautiful and too important to miss.
Dates & Times
March 3—25, 2018
Saturdays at 2:00pm and 5:00pm
Sundays at 11:00am and 2:00pm
Location
Winningstad Theatre, 1111 SW Broadway, Portland
Age Recommendation
8 and up
Run time
70 minutes with no intermission
Ticket Prices
$14-$28
Discounts available for groups of 8 or more! Click here for more info.
*Be sure to allow yourself some extra time to view the art installation in the hallway on the way to Winningstad Theatre. You will find a captivating history of Vanport, as well as amazing sketches of scenes from Cassius Clay by several talented artists.
