LANCASHIRE TELEGRAPH: Alfie’s First Fight Feature (24/01/2023)

A theatre maker who was born into poverty and fought for success after his sporting dreams were shattered is premiering his one man show in Burnley.

Inspired by writer and performer Oliver Sykes’ own experiences growing up without a mum and being coached as an amateur boxer by his dad, the one man show Alfie’s First Fight is a story about love, loss, family, and boxing.

Oliver, 33, was born into poverty in rural Derbyshire. He and his five siblings were raised on s council estate on the breadline, receiving clothing donations from local charities, income support and free school meals.

His sporting dreams were shattered – along with his hand – after he was set upon by a bunch of teenagers in the park. Following his other passion instead, Oliver started out as a theatre producer (after being awarded a prestigious bursary) and is now the writer and performer of his first children’s production.

Oliver said: “Alfie’s First Fight is the kind of tale that you don’t very often see on stage.

“It’s a relatable, working class story about a loving and supportive non-traditional family who love boxing.

“Alfie’s First Fight is a story about coming of age, fighting our fears and being who we always wanted to be.

“It will appeal to everyone who has ever felt like the underdog but has gone full throttle for the win regardless.”

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