How much do you know about Sugar Ray Robinson? I must admit I didn’t know much, but my appetite was satisfied when I went to the New Harlem Besame Restaurant, where “Sugar Ray” is playing as a dinner-theatre production. Playwright Laurence Holder has lovingly, humorously and powerfully created a one-man show about the life of the champ. This production is captivatingly directed by Woodie King Jr. and it is passionately performed by Reginald L. Wilson.
As one sits in the 65-seat restaurant, black-and-white film footage of Robinson in actual fights is shown on a screen. Waitresses give you menus and take your order as you choose from delicious Latin and soul food menu items. Your food is cooked while you visit with Wilson, who is Robinson. He comes to the restaurant and visits with the audience, sharing his life story. Wilson often breaks the fourth wall, leaving the front part of the room with his chair and table props and performing while walking through, engaging the audience.
Wilson delivers a dynamite punch as he takes the audience on a journey through the life and times of Robinson. The audience finds out everything about the champ. We find out about his family life, the relationship he had with his strict, strong mother, a woman who raised him and his sisters while working a couple of jobs. We learn from Robinson what attracted him and what attracts other boxers to the profession: walking into a boxing gym is like entering Heaven. Boxers love everything about it—the atmosphere, the sights, the sounds, the smells. They also love it for the gate, the pay they receive for subjecting themselves to this punishing sport. Boxers back then were proud and considered themselves gladiators.
While Wilson brings Robinson to life, he also portrays several other characters. The audience hears everything about what boxers deal with—the crooked people involved in the fight-game, the gangsters, the sports reporters—and you realize how important the fans are in the lives of boxers. Holder makes sure to include all facets of Robinson’s life, including his real name, how he came to be called Sugar Ray Robinson, his first fight in the ring and so much more. It was very educational and also very entertaining to sit in the audience and visit with the champ. The audience learned of the boxer’s retirement, his comeback, his honors and even his acting opportunities. You see Robinson as a complete person. He was a proud man, respectful of his mother and sisters, and a man with integrity. He had a passion for boxing and had the opportunity to share his passion with the world.
“Sugar Ray” is living history and something memorable to experience. Wilson is endearing as Robinson. You can tell that Wilson has a great deal of respect for this iconic boxer.
Of the production, Wilson shared, “Historically, it’s important for the age group [who thinks] Mayweather, pound for pound, is the best boxer ever. Our people and our ancestors are being forgotten. The opportunity to present this play was tremendous.”
“Sugar Ray” has been extended until April 26. Tickets are $49 with dinner (drinks may be ordered à la carte) and $25 without dinner. The complete experience is energizing. I highly recommend it. Enjoy “Sugar Ray.” Wilson’s energy, dedication to this role and performance will “knock you out!”
For more information, call 646-261-5397. For tickets, visit www.smarttix.com or call 212-868-4444.